Comment Sought for Limited Release of GM Maize in Australia

Australia’s Department of Health and Ageing, Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is inviting for comments on a request from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) for the limited and controlled release of up to 11 genetically modified (GM) maize lines. The purpose of the trial is to conduct basic research to investigate gene function in maize in order to improve characteristics that may be of agronomic importance. The trial is proposed to take place at one site, on a maximum of 750 m² in the Australian Capital Territory. The same site would be re-planted with GM maize for up to five growing seasons from 2008-13.

OGTR has prepared a consultation Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP), which concludes that the proposed release would pose negligible risk to human health and safety or to the environment. CSIRO proposed a number of controls to restrict the dissemination or persistence of the GM maize lines into the environment that have been considered during the evaluation of the application.

For more information, visit http://www.ogtr.gov.au/internet/ogtr/publishing.nsf/Content/dir086-2008