Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 205: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of incidents where her Department investigated cases of illegally imported genetically modified organisms; the quantities of genetically modified maize found; the penalties imposed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40711/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The only incident where animal feed containing illegal genetically modified organisms was imported into this country was the 2,500 tonne consignment of maize gluten from the USA in May 2005 which contained the non authorised genetically modified maize line called Bt10. Having received prior notification of its importation from the importers officials of my Department were able to supervise its unloading and storage pending its destruction. None of the material was placed on the market. All of the illegal material was subsequently sent to Holland for incineration in December 2005 with all costs borne by the importer. No further penalties were imposed on the importer.