14 January 2008
Recent reports have suggested that AgResearch might obtain an amendment to its current genetically modified cattle approvals so that it can move the animals around the country. Furthermore, the stories suggest that this application will not be open to public consultation.
These reports are incorrect. This media advisory is being issued to
clarify AgResearch’s approvals and to assist journalists in their future
coverage of the genetically modified cattle research.
ERMA New Zealand can confirm that any application to move genetically
modified animals around the country would be subject to full public
consultation. It is probable that the misunderstanding is the result of
confusion between an amendment that AgResearch is seeking to one of its
existing approvals and other new applications that it intends to make
this year.
AgResearch currently has two approvals from the Authority for GM cattle
research:
• GMF 98009 – a two-part field test approval for milk
research, involving field testing. One part of this research is due to
expire in November 2008.
• GMD 02028 – an outdoor development approval looking at the development
of human proteins in cows’ milk for pharmaceutical purposes.
ERMA New Zealand understands that AgResearch intends to make
applications this year for a number of new approvals. Among other
things, these applications are expected to cover the creation of a
number of new secure research facilities (at present, there is only one
– Ruakura) and to seek permission to move animals between these
facilities. If the Authority approved such an application, these new
facilities would then have to be separately approved by MAF before they
could be used to hold genetically modified animals.
AgResearch is also currently considering making an application to amend the GMF 98009 approval under section 67A of the HSNO Act. This application would be to align approval GMF 98009 with GMD 02028. It would not cover moving animals around the country. This section 67A application, which would be for a minor or technical amendment to the approval, would not be open to public consultation.
If journalists require any background information about approvals for
genetic modification research or have questions about the process, ERMA
New Zealand staff are always available to assist. Copies of applications
and Authority decisions are also available through ERMA New Zealand’s
website, www.ermanz.govt.nz
For further information contact:
David Venables, Communications Manager, ERMA New Zealand.
¨ Telephone +64 4 918 4835 ¨ Mobile 021 224 3304
¨ Facsimile +64 4 914 0433
¨ Email: david.venables@ermanz.govt.nz