23 May 2011

Genetic Engineering and New Zealand
We write in support of the majority of New Zealanders concerned about genetic engineering and its applications in New Zealand. It is a technology we have closely monitored since the late 1990s.

We are cognisant of the important advances made in biotechnology adding to the value to our scientific heritage, including those made by New Zealand scientists. However, the application of genetic engineering biotechnology, in particular the release overseas into the environment of genetically engineered organisms, has proven at best uncertain and at worst seriously damaging. We maintain that it is imperative to keep genetic engineering biotechnology in strict containment in the laboratory.

For the reasons detailed in this letter we call for government to instigate a moratorium on any further release into the environment and food chain of genetically engineered organisms given:
- Proven negative outcomes identified in the use of GE organisms overseas, which New
Zealand can and must avoid
- Potential for catastrophic disruption of complex natural systems in the longer term
- Evidence in animal tests of harm from consumption of GE foods, including impacts on
reproduction, internal organs and tissue damage, in some cases involving GE products that
are already entering the human food chain
- The absence of credible independent testing of GE foods prior to their entry into the human
food chain
- The absence of research and monitoring of the impact of GE foods on public health
- The potential for harm from consuming GE foods, particularly amongst infants, pregnant
women, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems
- The unique importance to New Zealand of sustaining the integrity of the environment and
‘clean green’ reputation of the food production system, which underpin the economic value
of our tourism and exports

ENDS

© Scoop Media