Australia’s gene technology
regulatory system is designed to protect the health & safety
of people & the environment by identifying risks posed by,
or as a result of, gene technology & managing those risks.
The Gene Technology
Regulator is currently assessing licence application DIR
064/2006 from Monsanto Australia Ltd to intentionally
release genetically modified (GM) cotton into the
environment:
The application proposes
the limited & controlled release of up to 24 cotton lines
modified with different genes that are expected to enhance
water use efficiency. The release is proposed to take place
on up to 10 sites of up to 2 hectares (ie a maximum total
area of 20 hectares) during each of the two summer growing
seasons in 2006/07 and 2007/08 in NSW and QLD. The purpose
of the trial is to conduct ‘proof of concept’ research to
examine the effect of each of the introduced genes on plant
growth under different watering conditions, & to collect
seed from the GM cotton lines for analysis & possible use in
further studies (subject to future applications &
approvals).
The Regulator has prepared
a risk assessment & risk management plan (RARMP) for the
proposed release, and suggests a range of conditions
(including containment measures) that would be imposed if a
licence was issued.
The Regulator welcomes
written submissions in order to finalise the RARMP, which
will then form the basis of her decision on whether or not
to issue the licence. The consultation RARMP & related
documents can be obtained from the website www.ogtr.gov.au
under ‘What’s New’ or by contacting her Office. Please quote
the application DIR 064/2006 in any correspondence.
Submissions should be
received by close of business on 13 September 2006.
Office of the Gene
Technology Regulator
PO Box 100
WODEN, ACT 2606
Australia
http://www.ogtr.gov.au
Telephone: 1800 181 030
Facsimile: 02 6271 4202
E-mail:
ogtr@health.gov.au
