Genetically modified plants under exam
There may be a review of genetically modified organisms in the North Okanagan.
The Electoral Area Advisory Committee is asking the Regional District of North Okanagan to form an ad hoc committee to investigate genetically modified seeds and plants.
“It’s quite a controversial topic and we should give it due consideration,” said Rick Fairbairn, EAAC chairperson.
The issue has been promoted by Huguette Allen, an environmental advocate.
Allen has presented a sample resolution that urges the RDNO to strongly discourage the release into the environment, use or sale of live, self-reproducing, genetically engineered organisms within the area until the long-term consequences of such products and organisms are fully understood.
Fairbairn supports a review moving ahead.
“There is concern about GMOs and the potential affect on the population,” he said.
“People have concerns about what they are eating.”
Fairbairn admits, though, that there is some uncertainty as to whether RDNO and local municipalities have the authority to place restrictions on GMOs.
“It’s proven difficult in other areas to deal with it,” he said.
COMMENTS
Let's keep comments:
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters.
We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.