05th November 2003

FoE demands Government's position on GMOs
Corrects its previous statement

With reference to our previous press release on the minister’s comments on GMOs, we are now informed that, contrary to what we had previously stated when relying on a report in the media, environment minister George Pullicino never said he would vote against GMOS. We are now informed that what the minister said, when asked how Malta would vote about GMOs, was "At this stage, as an Accession country, it would be presumptuous to make its position known on GMOs, and we do not have a vote anyway..."

We regret any inconvenience caused, but call on the minister to take a definite stand on GMOs. Malta cannot afford to continue sitting on the fence when it comes to important environmental matters.

There is enough evidence now to indicate the danger of GMOs. Recent studies have shown that growing GM oilseed rape and beet damages biodiversity. Most of the studies made so far have pointed out the risks of growing and consuming GMO products. Yet, in most cases, companies would not be liable for any environmental, consumer health or economic damage resulting from GMOs.

The protection of the public and the environment must come before the financial interests of the biotech industry.