June 3, 2002

Australia’s Gene Technology Regulator (the Regulator) is responsible for administering a new regulatory system established to protect the health and safety of people and the environment by identifying risks posed by, or as a result of, gene technology and managing those risks by controlling dealings with genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

The Regulator has received two applications for licences to undertake limited and controlled releases of different types of genetically modified canola into the environment in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia:

• DIR010/2001 from Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd* proposes to trial InVigor^® canola. This canola has been genetically modified by the introduction of a hybrid breeding system based on male sterile and fertility restorer lines, and tolerance to the herbicide glufosinate ammonium (the active ingredient in Basta^®) as a selective tool for breeding; and

• DIR011/2001 from Monsanto Australia Ltd proposes to trial Roundup Ready^® canola. This canola has been genetically modified by the introduction of tolerance to the herbicide glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup^®) to assist in weed control.

Following consultation with the expert groups and authorities prescribed in the Gene Technology Act 2000 (the Act), the Regulator has prepared two risk assessment and risk management plans, including proposed licence conditions, in respect of the proposed activities.

The Regulator invites written submissions from interested people and organisations on these plans. There will be a six week public consultation period and copies of the risk assessment and risk management plans, as well as summary information, can be obtained from the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator’s website or from the address below. Copies and summaries of the licence applications are also available from the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. Please quote the relevant application numbers.

Submissions should be forwarded to the Regulator by close of business on 12 July 2002.

Office of the Gene Technology Regulator
MDP 54, PO Box 100
WODEN ACT 2600

Telephone: 1800 181 030
Facsimile: 02 6271 4202
http://www.ogtr.gov.au

* Bayer CropScience as of June 1, 2002