(http://www.eubusiness.com/afp/050322162119.30hc6d01/view) 
 
Poland asks EU to ban genetically modified corn cultivation for two years

22/03/2005 

The Polish government is to ask the European  Union to ban the genetically 
modified corn seed in Poland for two years to allow  environmental safety tests 
to be carried out, a statement issued Tuesday said.  

"Given the absence of tests conducted locally, there is a risk to  farming... 
As a result, until tests are carried out, Poland will ask for the  right to 
ban for two years the use of and trade in genetically modified MON 810  corn 
seed," the statement said. 

Environmental groups in the central European country called the  government's 
move "responsible." 

The ban would "protect Polish farmers against the pollution of their crops  
by genetically modified organisms," said an official from Greenpeace Poland,  
Maciej Muskat. 

"Given the irresponsibility of the European Commission, other EU countries  
should follow Poland's example," he added