GM Food, Regulators and the Public’s Right to Know
Thanks to urgent action by people who contacted the Assistant Shadow Health Minister, Stephen Jones, a Bill that would have removed the definition of GMO and GM product from the Food Standards Act, and so allowed new GM breeding techniques to go unassessed, was last week referred to a Senate Committee for inquiry and report. We urge as many to now write a short submission before 5th November to ensure the inquiry does not allow this Bill to go through. A one-page submission is adequate. Send your submission to the: Committee Secretary.
Suggestions for inclusion are:
1. That the definition of gene technology as “any technique for the modification of genes or other genetic material’ in the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991 be maintained.
2. That the requirement that FSANZ notify the Gene Technology Regulator of any of its food regulatory measures that relate to food that is or contains a GMO or GM product be maintained.
3. That the current make-up of the FSANZ board be maintained as the proposed changes will open up the possibility of undue industry influence.
4. That a moratorium be put in place on the commercialisation of New Breeding Techniques until our regulatory system for GMOs is adapted to deal with the potential risks posed by them.
Note: The name of the Bill is 'Food Standards Australia New Zealand Amendment' (Forum on Food Regulation and Other Measures) Bill 2015 D.
Climate Change
On November 29, hours before world leaders meet at the Paris Climate Summit, the Global Climate March will take place to push political leaders to commit to bold action to solve the climate change crisis. Over 1 million people are expected to join in over 2000 cities. Pope Francis is urging us to mobilize to protect our common home, Mother Earth, so let’s make sure that Catholics from every single country join the Global Catholic Climate Movement on November 29. Read more about the Catholic Climate Movement.
Visit the People's Climate website for events in Australia, and walk alongside millions of people in hundreds of major cities around the world. Get your parish or school involved. We will march together to show that we want an end to fossil fuels and a planned transition to 100% renewable energy.
Read more from the latest Columban eConnections