Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 115: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the release of genetically modified crops; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3590/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The deliberate release of genetically modified crops into the environment is legislated for under EU Directive 2001/18/EC which provides, inter alia, for controls governing the assessment and authorisation procedures for GM crop cultivation. The EPA is the competent authority for the implementation of this Directive in Ireland.

This Directive is part of a suite of GM legislation, adopted by the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament which is binding on all Member States and is aimed at achieving the highest possible degree of human health and environmental protection for the citizens of the EU.

Ireland's general position in developing and implementing this legislation is informed by the Government's acceptance of the recommendation set out in the Report of the Inter-Departmental Group on Modern Biotechnology (October 2000) that Ireland's stand at EU level and in international fora should be one of positive but precautionary — a position which acknowledges the benefits of genetic engineering, while maintaining a fundamental commitment to safety and environmental sustainability based on scientific risk assessment and management.

I am satisfied these authorisation procedures, coupled with effective coexistence measures, can adequately safeguard the environment and human health in the context of authorised GM crop cultivation.