June 27, 2000
The Minister for the Environment, Hon Marian Hobbs, will open the Environmental Risk Management Authority's national conference in Christchurch this week.
She will give a keynote address on her approach to environmental issues and will outline the government's expectations for the management of new organisms including genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and hazardous substances.
The Minister will also outline the newly announced Moratorium on Genetic Modification and how different types of GM research will be affected, during the time that the Royal Commission of Inquiry on Genetic Modification is completing its work.
The Environmental Risk Management Authority controls the introduction of new plants and animals, including genetically modified organisms, and hazardous substances into New Zealand.
The conference, on 29 and 30 June, will also discuss the risks to New Zealand's biodiversity and sustainable land management from importing new plants and animals.
It is expected to attract 100-150 participants from around the country, including industry, scientists, legal and resource management advisors, Maori, environmental groups and central and local government agencies.
The detailed programme is available.
For further information contact:
Karen Cronin
Communications Manager
ERMA New Zealand
Ph 04 496 4826
04 918 4826