August 1, 2001
Press Release
The Environmental Risk Management Authority has welcomed the report of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification, released earlier this week.
Acting Chief Executive, Dr Donald Hannah, said the Commission had produced a comprehensive and valuable report.
"The Commission was presented with a huge task to consult on and analyse the many complex issues surrounding genetic modification in New Zealand. Their report provides a significant reference point in public discussion and knowledge about this issue."
Dr Hannah said that the Authority would now await the Government's detailed response to the Commission's recommendations.
The Environmental Risk Management Authority is a crown entity, with an independent role under the HSNO Act. As such, it would not be contributing to the government policy process but would implement new procedures if changes were made to the Act. "ERMA New Zealand will provide technical or expert support if requested by the Government as it considers the report in detail over the coming weeks.
And then we will move promptly and positively to implement any changes that the Government chooses to make."
In the meantime, it would be business as usual.
The importation and development of GMOS in contained laboratories, was not affected by the voluntary moratorium on GM. The moratorium is due to end on 31 August. Unless the moratorium is extended, new applications for GMO field tests and releases could be made from that date. All applications are viewable on the ERMA New Zealand website at www.ermanz.govt.nz
For further information contact:
| Dr Donald Hannah, Acting Chief Executive, ERMA New Zealand. Ph: +64 4 473 8426. |
Karen Cronin, Project Manager, Communications. Ph: +64 4 918 4826. |
For further information see ERMA New Zealand's focus page on the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification.