January 12, 2000
The Environmental Risk Management Authority has outlined its plans for public input to a GM wheat proposal from Monsanto.
The application, which was notified in September, is to import and field test in the Canterbury region genetically modified Roundup Ready Wheat. The Authority will hold a public hearing on the proposal probably in the week of 3-7 April 2000, in Wellington. The date has yet to be confirmed
ERMA New Zealand spokesperson, Karen Cronin, said there had been a huge number of submissions on the proposal.
After adding up all the submissions we received by fax, email and post we had a final total of 1418. Of these, 433 people requested to be heard. This has created an interesting logistical challenge for us. We are now looking at how to accommodate everyone with an interest in the application, including those who want to take part in the hearing.
Under the HSNO Act, anyone who is a submitter can asked to be heard. Submitters at the hearing are also entitled to call witnesses. And because the hearing is public, anyone can attend as an observer. We have to find a practical solution which will give people a chance to clarify the issues and have their say while at the same time keeping the process manageable and cost efficient.
The submissions cover a range of concerns, including:
- Containment of the field trial;
- Ecological and health risks;
- Cultural risks;
- Economic and social risks;
- Questions about the benefits.
A full Summary of Submissions Report is being prepared and will be available on request or on the ERMA New Zealand website.
ERMA New Zealand wrote to all submitters before Christmas, outlining various options for managing the process:
- Some submitters may have asked to be heard simply to get access to the Evaluation and Review Report. In that case, ERMA New Zealand has offered to provide it directly.
- There may be scope for one person to present on behalf of other submitters.
- ERMA New Zealand is also offering to meet with submitters before the hearing - outside Wellington if required - to talk through the details.
Submitters have been asked to give their views on these options by 25th January 2000.