As it tries to develop proposals on how to regulate genetically modified organisms, the federal government is receiving little co-operation from groups opposed to the technology.
A coalition of anti-GMO campaigners recently announced it will not take part in a round of government-sponsored consultations conducted by the Canadian Biotechnology Advisory Committee.
The coalition said it is a biased process likely to produce results that make it easier for producers of GM food.
In a statement from the Council of Canadians and Greenpeace announcing the boycott by more than 50 organizations, anti-GMO crusader and Ram’s Horn newsletter editor Brewster Kneen said a parliamentary committee should conduct the debate about regulations.
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He said the government should also block approval of new GM products until hearings are held and a decision is made.
The 21-member biotech advisory committee was established in September 1999 “to provide independent expert advice to the government of Canada on biotechnology issues.” It released a consultation document in late winter inviting comment on issues as wide ranging as labeling and whether the Canadian Food Inspection Agency should report to the health minister rather than the agriculture minister.
This summer, it will present an initial report to government outlining options and possible “general directions” for future policy.
After that, six more months of consultation will be held before it presents a final report in 2002.
“CBAC is striving to provide an opportunity for all interested parties to assist in shaping its recommendations to government on the regulation of GM food,” advisory committee chair Arnold Naimark said in a letter to Canadian Environment Network co-ordinator Derek Stack after he received news of the boycott.
“CBAC is neither pro nor anti-biotech,” he wrote.
“We are committed to providing sound, comprehensive, evidence-based advice that takes into account the views of Canadians.”
That’s not the way the critics see it.
“Its impartiality is suspect,” said the boycott announcement.
“CBAC is housed in the office of the Canadian Biotechnology Secretariat within Industry Canada, an agency whose aim is to promote biotechnology.”
The coalition said that to offer comments to the advisory committee would be to “legitimize CBAC’s wholly inadequate mandate and process and undermine demands for true democratic processes and widespread public consultation.”
Instead, written concerns will be sent to the committee once petitions have circulated across the country.
