Australia’s gene technology regulatory system is designed to
protect the health & safety of people & the environment by
identifying risks posed by, or as a result of, gene
technology & managing those risks.
The Gene
Technology Regulator is currently assessing licence
application DIR 065/2006 from Deltapine Australia Pty Ltd to
intentionally release genetically modified (GM) cotton into
the environment:
The
application proposes the limited & controlled release of up
to 11 insect resistant GM cotton lines. The proposed release
would take place at one site, on a maximum total area of 1.5
hectares in the shire of Narrabri (NSW) over the summer
season of 2006/07. The purpose of the trial is to conduct
early stage research & to produce seed from the GM cotton
lines for use in further studies (subject to future
applications & approvals).
The
Regulator has prepared a risk assessment & risk management
plan (RARMP) for the proposed release, & suggests a range of
conditions (including containment measures) that would be
imposed if a licence was issued.
The
Regulator welcomes written submissions in order to finalise
the RARMP, which will then form the basis of her decision on
whether or not to issue the licence. The consultation RARMP
& related documents can be obtained from the website
www.ogtr.gov.au under ‘What’s New’ or by contacting her
Office. Please quote the application DIR 065/2006 in any
correspondence.
Submissions should be received by close of business on 1
September 2006.
Office of the Gene Technology Regulator
PO Box 100
WODEN, ACT 2606
Australia
Telephone:
1800 181 030
Facsimile: 02 6271 4202
E-mail:
ogtr@health.gov.au