Mary Wallace (Meath, Fianna Fail)

However, this would necessitate everyone moving forward voluntarily rather than the imposition of a ban. We cannot impose a ban because we operate under EU law. Moreover, regardless of whether one wants to, one must bear in mind the increased costs to the Irish animal production sector that would arise following the imposition of a ban on the importation of GM foods. In addition to the expense of such a measure, difficulties would arise in accessing non-GM crops. It has become increasingly difficult to source non-GM maize and, in particular, non-GM soya. The proportion of these crops grown from GM varieties will continue to increase. Non-GM maize and soya will become more expensive.

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