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Redman books overseas trip to study GM

21 May, 2009 05:00 AM

AGRICULTURE Minister Terry Redman is planning to visit the US and Canada during the mid-year Parliamentary break to investigate the use of Genetically Modified crops and biofuels, in those countries.

The funding will come out of the $1 million allocated in the State Budget last week, for improving market access for WA agricultural products.

The government also allocated $3m towards a range of activities, aimed at creating a positive and enduring profile, for agriculture and food.

"One of the priorities for my next overseas trip is to go into Canada and the US and target GM's and biofuels," Mr Redman said.

"Right now that is probably one of the highest priorities on our list, in terms of this government's initiatives moving forward.

"As you are aware, I had an extended trip to the Middle East last year and we are also in discussions with the Agriculture Department to get advice about our next trip in respect to our key markets."

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It would be of far more value to Australia's image and profit if Mr Redman went to Saladin Farm, or other NON GM properties! He would see that organic farms outproduce per hectare, the conventional chemical farming promulgated by the chemical agri businesses. The debacle over non segregation of GM Canola this year, and ensuing 2x extra costs to NON GM growers will be raising some hackles soon. GM wheat is not wanted or needed and Australian women, if not the men, will be the ones to refuse to buy and will boycott any companies using it, or considering using it.

Posted by amicus curiae, 22/05/2009 9:39:53 PM

Terry Redman will spend taxpayer money on his North American trip to explore GM and GM-free options. He must get all sides of the story on the merits and problems of GM and GM-free crops. Before going, he should also seek the advice of the WA MPs who took a fact-finding tour during their GM inquiry in 2002 to get a full and balanced picture. The Hon. Dr Christine (Chrissy) Sharp MLC chaired the committee that, after hearing all the evidence, gave all-party support to the GM crops ban. Redman rushed into trashing that policy so I hope he listens with an open mind and the possibility that a ban on GM canola is in the best interests of WA farmers and shoppers.

Posted by Bob Phelps, 25/05/2009 6:54:31 PM

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