Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 226: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his plans to revert to Ireland's previous stance in the EU on genetically modified, GM, crops and foods. [5848/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Responsibility for issues relating to the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in Ireland rests with my colleague Mr. Phil Hogan, T.D. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government while responsibility for GM animal feed rests with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mr. Simon Coveney, T.D. My responsibilities in this area relate to the safety of food.

Each application for authorisation to place food consisting of, or containing, genetically modified ingredients on the markets of EU Member States is considered on a case-by-case basis. The food in question must be deemed to be safe by both the European Food Safety Authority and the competent authority in the country of application. If authorised, the food must be clearly labelled to ensure that consumers are fully informed as to the properties of the product. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is the competent authority on food safety in Ireland. My Department has consulted with the FSAI and has been informed that there are currently no authorised GM foods on the Irish market.