Australia
August 7, 2007
Source:
Agrifood Awareness Australia Limited
The Australian grains industry has
demonstrated its preparedness for the adoption of GM canola.
A report endorsed by key grains industry organisations
describing the industry’s capacity to use GM canola and deliver
market choice, was presented at the Agriculture Australia 2007
conference in Melbourne today.
Southern New South Wales grain grower, Angus McLaren, told more
than 450 delegates that the industry can adopt GM canola, and
provide choice, to allow Australian growers to compete on the
world market.
“Canadian canola farmers are reaping the rewards from GM canola.
Australian growers should be able to have the choice to explore
that opportunity.
“Extensive industry consultation has shown that the supply chain
has the protocols, practises and processes either in place or
available to manage these new varieties of canola, in the 2008
season.
The grains industry has also recognised that choice must be a
priority across the supply chain and that all customers – from
farmers to consumers - can use or access the products of their
choice.
“Importantly, this document has been endorsed by leaders of
organisations from across the industry,” he said.
Mr McLaren told the audience that under a project originally
funded by Single Vision Grains Australia, the supply chain’s
protocols and processes, the technical principles and practises,
and the requirements of the marketplace, were scoped and
evaluated.
“The industry agrees that the key steps for commercialisation of
approved GM canola have been met.
“The industry is ready to move ahead with the commercialisation
of the two approved GM canola varieties.
“Grains industry leaders urge governments to recognise the
grains industry’s ability and commitment, and to support the
commercialisation of approved GM canola in Australia,” he said.
The report entitled ‘Delivering market choice with GM canola’ is
being provided to each of the Review Panels currently assessing
the marketing, trade and economic impacts of the state-based
moratoria in South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.
The Agriculture Australia Conference 2007 is being held on
August 7 and 8 at Hilton on the Park, Melbourne. Visit
www.agricultureaustralia.com.au for more information. |
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