Minister Villu Reiljan announced to the European Commission that Estonia will not approve the marketing of two types of genetically modified maize - lines 1507 and NK603x MON810 - in the European Union because he wishes to have more information in the application documents concerning their effect on the environment and other organisms. The Minister shaped his opinion on the marketing of these maize lines based on the evaluation of the gene technology committee and a recent public discussion and press conference where representatives of several non-governmental organisations, experts and scientists stated their positions on the issue. "I think that we should be completely informed and ask all the questions before we make our decisions on genetically modified organisms. If we are not absolutely sure and lack information, I would prefer to ask for more information, which I did in the case of these two maize applications. I have also consulted with members of the gene technology committee who, to my mind, are highly competent," said Reiljan. According to the Minister, he is glad that the public discussion attracted a lot of attention. "In order to have a thorough discussion on GMOs in the society, we have included various interested parties in the gene technology committee. I hope that it will create a substantial and reasoned discussion to provide balanced information to the public and help manage our emotions," the Minister added. The positions of Member States on GM maize (lines 1507 and NK603x MON810) are delivered to the scientific committee of the European Union who will give its assessment to the European Commission for preparation of a draft decision. The draft decision will be discussed and voted on by the committee of the genetically modified organisms directive comprising the representatives of all 25 countries. If the committee makes a positive decision, the European Commission will grant a GMO marketing authorisation. In the case of a negative decision, the matter will be discussed and voted on in the Council of Ministers. The application for authorisation to market GM maize line 1507 has been submitted through Spain by Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc and Mycogen Seeds and the application for authorisation to market GM maize line NK603x MON810 has been submitted by Monsanto Europe SA through Great Britain. The applicants wished to market the maize for industrial consumption and use as forage and line 1507 maize also for cultivation. Further information: |
