Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Sinn Féin slams EU Commission over GM move

10 November, 2003

Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris and Fermanagh South Tyrone Candidate Councillor Gerry McHugh have strongly attacked the EU Commission for having succumbed to US pressure to allow the sale of genetically modified food. Deputy Ferris and Cllr. McHugh were speaking following a decision by a Commission group to postpone a vote on the sale of genetically modified sweetcorn until December. The product in question is a variety known as 'Bt 11' manufactured by the Swiss corporation Syngenta.

Deputy Ferris said:

"This attempt by the Commission to approve the sale of GM foods must be regarded with suspicion. It would appear clear that they are trying to get approval for this product before more stringent regulations come into force. The Commission is caving in to pressure from the United States, which has a massive interest in opening up European markets for GM, but is opposed by the vast majority of European farmers and consumers. The fact that the decision was postponed, however, would indicate that there is still opposition among the 15. We will be asking Minister Joe Walsh to explain what way the Irish representative voted, and will be calling on him to ensure that when this issue comes back for decision on December 12, that Ireland oppes the move".ENDS

Connect with Sinn Féin