Communique from the NSW Agricultural Advisory Council on Gene Technology - July 2004

The New South Wales Agricultural Advisory Council on Gene Technology met at the Department of Primary Industries, Sydney, on 26 July 2004.

At the request of Minister MacDonald the Council focussed on the development of a more detailed study of the issue of potential liability arising from any future trial programme involving GM canola. An outline of the proposed study is being prepared.

In addition, Council discussed the development of a check list of requirements for any potential future research applications. This would be drafted based on past experience and finalized after consultation with key stakeholders. It would also include a summary of the perceived potential risks and benefits associated with GM canola.

Other items of business included consideration of the decisions by Monsanto Australia Limited and Bayer CropScience Pty. Ltd. not to conduct research trials of Roundup Ready® or Invigor® canola in NSW in 2004. Council will have its next meeting on 14 September 2004.