Barton, ACT, Australia
August 13, 2007
State governments must seize the
opportunities gene technology poses for Australia’s agricultural
production base – both in terms of better and more
drought-resistant crops, and our long-term economic efficiency
and competitiveness on the world stage.
The National Farmers’ Federation
(NFF) says Australian farmers have been ‘left behind’ by an
international marketplace that has already embraced GM as a safe
and viable science. Australian farmers are now being ‘held back’
from cutting-edge farm techniques, based on out-dated hysteria.
“What was once a prudent ‘wait and see’ policy, is no longer
viable,” NFF President David Crombie said. “The science is in...
the world has moved on from the traditional and overtly
emotional arguments against GM crops.
“Australia now must play catch up – and do so quickly – to
ensure we win a much greater share of world markets,
opportunities which until the GM moratoria are scrapped, will
continue to pass us by.
“Farmers must have the opportunity to adopt the method of
production best suited to their customers’ needs – be that GM,
conventional, organic or any combination of these methods…
points of differentiation they can pursue to meet marketplace
desires.
“It is the marketplace – both domestic and international – that
is demanding the introduction of GM crops. The ‘status quo’ will
not do. State and Territory Governments must not arbitrarily
deny farmers pursuing sensible, scientifically-proven and
time-tested methods of production.
“Australian farmers are well-placed to responsibly harness the
enormous opportunities gene technology offers… reducing use of
pesticides and herbicides, maximising water efficiency,
resilience in adverse growing conditions and boosting production
yields.”
While pushing for the State moratoria to be lifted, the NFF says
the production decisions of one farmer should not unreasonably
impinge on the ability of other farmers in meeting the
requirements and expectations of the market they chose to meet.
“As with any new technology, it is vital that producers identify
and thoroughly assess potential risks, and implement strategies
to appropriately manage them,” Mr Crombie added.
“The NFF is satisfied appropriate Australian safeguards exist to
ensure food safety and the sustained integrity of organic and
conventional food production.
“In fact, Australia’s Gene Technology Act 2000 establishes
standards regarded as the world’s most stringent for assessing
GM plants for human and environmental safety.
“Australia’s rigorous gene technology regulatory system, and the
careful process required to meet commercialisation, means that,
with the exception of cotton and canola, new GM plant varieties
are unlikely to be ready for another seven years –highlighting
just how far behind Australian farmers are in the world market.
“The moratoria had their day. Uptake of gene technology will
result in substantial benefits for Australian farmers, the
environment, consumers and Australia’s place in the
international economy.”
For the NFF’s submission to State Government GM Moratorium
Review Panels, see:
Submissions to Government.
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