Vol. 572 No. 5
52 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government the Government's position on Irish food products remaining GM-free in view of the lack of public demand or support for GMOs being released into the environment. [23632/03]
The issue of food safety in general, including issues relating to novel foods and novel food ingredients, is primarily a matter for the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin.
As regards modern biotechnology and the environment, national policy is set out in the policy statement on genetically modified organisms and the environment issued in October 1999 following extensive public consultation and approval by Government. Copies are available in the Oireachtas Library. Regulations to transpose Directive 2001/18/EC, which strengthens the regulatory framework on the deliberate release of GMOs into the environment, will be made shortly.
