Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

I am aware of those concerns because I speak to farmers, as does Deputy Coveney. Sometimes it is not the fault of farmers that they are given incorrect information. The GM lobby is strong in Brussels and I understand that Deputy Coveney hears them regularly communicating the message that GM crops are a way of not using chemicals. The opposite is the case, as held by objective studies. I do not buy the idea that GM crops are a way of avoiding chemicals.

Many farmers are minimising pesticide use for reasons of cost as well as human health and environmental reasons and consumer pressure. I have visited a number of farms where biological controls are tested and are working quite well. This issue does not relate to what was proposed, namely a 50% cut in pesticide use. It refers to reduced risk, a far more complex issue that must be worked on through consultation with farmers, agronomists and those who have a scientific base for what they are advocating. I give a commitment that no decision I will stand over will be made in the dark, without consultation with farmers. It is vital that farmers recognise that consumer pressure is in favour of less pesticides and that scientific means, which do not involve GM, allow for far better plant protection with less pesticide through breeding various strains. For example, part of the directive deals with integrated pest management, the prohibition on aerial spraying, the designation of areas of greatly reduced or zero pesticide use and measures of risk reduction through harmonised indicators. It is quite complex and involves training and certification for professional users of pesticides.

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