July 19, 2000
The Environmental Risk Management Authority has today notified two applications to field test genetically modified Pinus radiata trees. Public submissions can be made up to 30 August 2000.
The applications have been made by Forest Research Institute Ltd, a crown research institute. The first proposal is to to field test Pinus radiata plants with genetic modifications in genes controlling reproductive development. The plants are proposed to be managed so that pollen is not created. The reproductive structures will be removed at this point in the life cycle of the plant. The application is to field test for up to 10 years per line. The total duration of the project is 22 years, including a post-trial monitoring phase. The second proposal is to field test Pinus radiata and Picea abies (spruce) plants genetically engineered for herbicide resistance. The management regime includes removing reproductive structures from the plants. The proposal is to field test for up to five years per line. The total duration of this project is 11 years.
The field tests would be conducted at the Forest Research Institute, Rotorua.
Chief Executive Dr Bas Walker said the applications were both formally received by the Authority on 18 June 1999 and therefore are not affected by the government's moratorium on GM field tests, which came into effect on 14 June 2000.
"The reason for the delay is that the applications were sent back to Forest Research to supply further information and were only verified this month. It is quite common for us to stall applications while we seek further details from applicants. In this case we wanted them to supply details on the issues of significance to local Maori before we processed the application further. They have done that and we are now ready to go ahead with the next stage of public notification and submissions."
Dr Walker said that the Authority would process the applications in the normal way, as set down under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act. "None of this is affected by the moratorium. We are obliged by law to treat this application as we would any other to date. The Authority will make its decision on the basis of the risks, costs and benefits of the proposal and in the light of containment measures that could be taken to manage any risks. "
Public submissions can be made by any person and then any submitter can call for a public hearing. After submissions close ERMA has 25 working days in which to notify the hearing. The Authority would then consider all the material presented and come to a conclusion. A final decision is not expected for several months.
For further information contact:
Karen Cronin,
Communications Manager
Ph 04 473 8426 OR Mob 04 918 4826