Better health and ageing for all Australians

Gene Technology

Submission by Anne Goddard regarding Terms of Reference in the Gene Technology Act 2000

Gene Technology Act 2000 Reply to the Terms of Reference

In this section:

Please address the issues below according to your set "Terms of Reference" "The effectiveness and efficiency"

Safety Standards for contamination have failed (both in Australia and overseas):

  • In 2010 the Minister for Agriculture and Food Terry Redman allowed the commercial release of genetically modified (GM) canola, despite the majority of West Australians being opposed. Just one year on we are seeing contamination problems proving that the segregation of GM canola is impossible. GM crops pose risks to our health, our environment and our valuable export market.
  • Court of Appeals Dismisses Monsanto's Appeal of Biotech Beets Case. Preserves Victory for Farmers, Environment

Why tie up our court systems with problems like this one, as is happening now in Australia (see next point).
  • Steve Marsh Case: http//stevemarshbenefitfund.com.au/
Steve Marsh is an organic farmer from Kojonup Western Australia. In December 2010 Steve has genetically modified (GM) canola seeds blown onto his property from a neighbouring farm. Approximately 70 percent of Mr Marsh's property is now contaminated. His organic certification has been suspended by the certifying body, the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia (Inc.), putting his livelihood and whole harvest in limbo.
Fortunately Steve had taken the precautions to declare his property GM free and had gone to the expense of setting up signs and getting legal advice. He has consequently started a legal action against his GM neighbour following confirmation of GM contamination from the WA Dept of Agriculture. GM giant Monsanto has stated that it will support the GM farmer's legal action and the Pastoralists & Graziers Association (WA) Inc has agreed to pay the respondent neighbours legal frees.
Monsanto, the main company responsible for developing and promoting GMO's has insisted on "no-liability" agreements with participating farmers, making the company immune from persecution or liability for any "fall out" from its products.
  • Australia must not lose it's "GM Free" status. Such a status is worth a lot more than lining the pockets of multinational corporations who do not care about anything but profits.
  • You are here to represent the wishes and best interests of the people of Australia.
Please ensure GM crops are banned in Australia

Yours sincerely
Anne Goddard

Original submission in PDF format (PDF 38 KB)

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