There is little understanding of the technicalities of gene editing among decision makers tasked with changing New Zealand’s GE rules, according to Organics Aotearoa New Zealand.
OANZ GE spokesperson Brendan Hoare said a OANZ delegation recently held a three-day meeting with ministries, the Primary Production Select Committee and political parties about GE risks and rule changes.
Hoare said after the talks OANZ concluded that the new rules are being rushed.
Getting legislation on the organic sector took more than 12 years, but GE regulation changes will apparently happen in months, he said.
Hoare said consultation showed a significant gap in communication between ministries and a limited understanding among ministers of the complex scientific, ecological, and social implications of the proposed changes to GE regulations.
Decision makers are being told that gene technology will resolve climate, carbon, health, environmental and conservation challenges.
“We refute this speculative array of promises and question the urgency of implementing changes.”
News articles
Use this RSS link to subscribe to our news direct to your mail app