The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has invited scientific expert representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to a meeting next week in Parma to discuss scientific aspects of EFSA’s work on genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

In line with its policy on engaging with organisations with a legitimate interest in EFSA’s work, EFSA has invited scientists from environmental NGOs to share views on scientific and procedural issues related to the Authority’s work and advice in this field. Herman Koëter, EFSA’s Acting Executive Director, will chair the meeting which will be held on 22nd February 2006 in Parma.

The meeting illustrates EFSA’s willingness to dialogue with interested parties on scientific matters in line with EFSA’s policy on openness and transparency. The Authority is committed to exchange and collaboration with all of its stakeholders, including those who may hold different views. At this meeting scientists from both EFSA’s Panel on genetically modified organisms (GMO) and NGOs will give presentations on topics related to the risk assessment of genetically modified food, including environmental aspects.

In evaluating the safety of GMOs EFSA applies the highest standards of scientific rigour and follows internationally recognised procedures and methodologies. The objective of the meeting is to consider if there are issues of a scientific or technical nature that the Authority may wish to take into account in the further development of its work and operating procedures.

For further information on this meeting, please consult the agenda published on EFSA’s website at:
http://www.efsa.eu.int/stakeholder_stakeholder_consultative_platform/technical_meetings/catindex_en.html