AgResearch welcomes ERMA approval

15 April 2010

AgResearch welcomes ERMA approval for business as usual transgenic research

AgResearch has welcomed the Environmental and Risk Management Authority (ERMA) approval of its application to continue existing transgenic research on ruminant animals.

‘This means business as usual for our transgenic research. We will be continuing the rigorous containment we have used for over ten years and in our science explore the safe application of transgenic technologies for human benefit. Our research has been monitored and progress reported. We will continue to carry out the ongoing requirements,’ said Dr Jimmy Suttie, AgResearch’s Science & Technology General Manager, Applied Biotechnologies Group.

‘This approval allows us to meet contractual agreements we have and ensure our work covers relevant farmed ruminants in New Zealand, and this is important to pursuing transgenic research goals.

‘Importantly this sets the scene for potentially building a New Zealand biopharmaceuticals research programme that can save lives and alleviate suffering all around the world.

‘ERMA is the Crown organisation legislated to evaluate and assess scientific applications. It is also its role to assess potential issues for community safety, and we are happy to continue to abide by any and all restrictions and guidelines relating to safety and containment they place on our work,’ said Dr Suttie.

Note: This application is not part of the broader applications that are before ERMA and were delayed by order from the High Court.

ENDS