It was reported last week that Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency had approved the trial of a genetically modified potato crop. The decision has, unsurprisingly, attracted criticism from environmental protesters. Other campaigners against the crop have stated their fears that it will ruin the country’s reputation. The Organic Trust in Dublin says that this approval has “grave ramifications for Irish food and farming”. The Trust’ s Gavin Lynch says that this will be the first GM trial since 1996 when a previous attempt at growing GM sugar beets was discontinued.
“Ireland’s status as a GM-free country is being risked here,” Mr Lynch told BBC News. Those in favour of the GM potatoes have stated that the GM in this case,is similar to conventional breeding techniques – just a faster way to achieve the results.
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View the original article here: Ireland: Protest over GM potatoes grows
