GE CANOLA HAD ITS DAY

June 22, 2001
Tasmanian Country
Bruce Mounter

The era of genetically engineered canola in Tasmania is probably over.
Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association GE spokesman Rod
Thirkell-Johnston says that even if the State Government
allowed it, farmers were unlikely to grow GE canola crops once they were
fully aware of their obligations and responsibilities.

Last week it was revealed that 39 of 57 inspected sites had enough regrowth
of GE canola seedlings and five sites had plants at the flowering stage.
Mr Thirkell-Johnston said his personal view was that companies behind the GE
canola crops were moving the technology ahead too fast. The crops were
essentially commercial seed-production crops.