#Science & Technology
Target:
Queensland Government
Region:
Australia

The Tablelands GeneEthics Network formed 18 months ago with the aim of freezing the growth of gene modified crops across the Atherton Tablelands region of North Queensland for a period of 5 years.

In this time a moratorium can allow for proper investigation of the affects of Gene Modified crops in relation to health, environment & industry.

A forum held in Atherton on the 26 March 2001 drew an audience of close to 500 residents to listen to speakers from the Organic farming association, Queensland DPI, Monsanto & Consumer food network.

A questionnaire on the night showed that 89% of attendees agreed to a 5 year moratorium on the Atherton Tablelands.

We the undersigned petition:

A minimum five you freeze on release into the environment of genetically engineered organisms (GEOs) - crops microbes or animals - for research or commercial purposes; imports of genetically engineered foods and GEOs; patents on living organisms.

The Freeze would remain in force until the following are established:

1. An Office of Gene Technology Regulator and national laws on GEOs;

2. Mandatory labels on all foods produced using gene technology;

3. A Biosafety Protocol to ensure safe international transport and use of GEOs;

4. GE free zones where GEO-free crops can be grown without genetic pollution;

5. Independent research showing GEOs are harmless to health and environment;

6. Adverse reactions registers where the public can report any illness from GEOs;

7. A strong, enforceable liability and insurance regime on GEO products;

8. Everyone fully informed on GEOs, leading to democratic decisions on GEO use.

Your petitioners ask you to legislate for a five year freeze on GEOs.

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The A 5 Year Freeze on Genetic Engineering petition to Queensland Government was written by Georgina Shaddock and is in the category Science & Technology at GoPetition.