ARC adopts anti-GMO policy position
19 February 2007

The Auckland Regional Council (ARC) today voted to oppose the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in field and food in the Auckland region. The Council does not, however, oppose creating GMOs in laboratories for medical purposes.

ARC Regional Strategy and Planning Chair Paul Walbran says the Council adopted the policy in principle as a precautionary approach because there are significant uncertainties about GMOs, and issues that are yet to be understood and resolved.

The ARC’s policy acknowledges the overwhelming opposition to GMOs that was demonstrated in public submissions to the ARC’s annual plan.

“Our policy reflects Aucklanders’ widespread opposition to genetic modification.

“This is a symbolic decision that acknowledges that Central Government, not regional and local government, has responsibility for developing and enforcing decisions about genetically modified organisms,” says Mr Walbran.

ENDS

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