Biotech Updates

Western Australia Approves GM Canola Trials

January 9, 2009

The Department of Agriculture and Food, Government of Western Australia, approved small scale commercial genetically modified (GM) canola trials in 2009. Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said trial crops will be planted by about 20 farmers in 1,000 hectares. This will be the first commercial trial for GM canola in the state, the nation’s largest canola producer.

“This decision is a prudent and responsible one - to proceed in a cautious manner by allowing research to continue into the use of GM technology. I firmly believe the role of any Government is to ensure that farmers have the choice and the tools to expand their businesses and grow their profitability,” Redman said.

WA will work closely together with growers to segregate GM and non GM canola. Redman said that there would be stringent safeguards in place for the management of the trials. The Minister has also set up an intergovernmental committee to look at labeling and compliance issues of GM foods.

See the government media release at http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/content/fcp/co/GM_canola_trials_minister_statement.pdf