Dick Spring
Ceist:34 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the rights of consumers to know if food products contain genetically modified organisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18874/98]
Written Answers. - Genetically Modified Organisms.
I am very much aware of the concerns of consumers in relation to genetically engineered food. The primary purpose of the FSAI Act, enacted in July, is the protection of consumers and this is reflected in the structure of the authority. In addition to the authority's governing board, provision has been made for a 24 member consultative council which will provide a forum for consumer representatives to voice their concerns. The authority's scientific committee has also established a GMO and novel foods sub-committee which serves to advise me on issues in this area together with affording a forum for the exchange of expert scientific opinion and advice on this new technology.
There are strict legislative controls on the genetic modification of foodstuffs and my Department is responsible for the implementation of the relevant European Community measures in this area.
In relation to the latest EU measures on labelling, my Department is in consultation with both the FSAI and representatives of industry to ensure that consumers are informed to the greatest degree possible in relation to genetic modification of foodstuffs. This issue is also the subject of ongoing discussions at EU level and I can assure the Deputy that in these discussions Ireland will continue to press other member states to address the consumer concerns which exist in this area.