GM trials will destroy our green agriculture image
Green Party Communications, 29 February 2012 
http://www.greenparty.ie/news.html?n=40

*Planting of GM crops by Teagasc would destroy one of the pillars of our Green agricultural image claim Greens.

Poor prices rather than blight resistance is the problem that needs to be tackled

Green Party Agriculture and food spokesperson, Seamus Sheridan today responded to the news that Teagasc intend to apply for a licence from the EPA to plant genetically modified potatoes at their Oak Park Research Centre in County Carlow.

"This is a very serious move taken by Teagasc. The planting of GM crops in an outdoor environment, where neither pollen nor seed can be controlled would end our country's GM Free status for good, no matter how small the scale. Teagasc should now be asked if the pursuit of a trial on genetically modified crops, is worth ending one of the pillars of our green agricultural image. Fine Gael and Labour also need to be asked if they are ready and willing to give up our GM free status as a country."

"Today, Ireland is relying heavily on our island's green image to market our agricultural produce, and Bord Bia are spending heavily abroad to promote this image to consumers. Such a marketing strategy makes sense but we need to be careful to protect its credibility. This image is not based on massive scale industrial farming or the commoditisation of farm produce which goes hand-in-hand with GM crop production. The overwhelming majority of consumers purchasing Irish produce at home and abroad do not want to purchase GM foods. Without a demand for such products, conducting field trials is a futile exercise, as commercialisation will not be successful, regardless of the merits of the particular modification."

"The introduction of GM potatoes will not solve the current problems of potato farmers or ensure their sustainability. Ask any farmer and they will tell you that poor prices are a far bigger issue than control of blight. Right now potato growers are receiving in the order of 30 cents for a bag of potatoes which would sell to the consumer for 3 euro; just a tenth of the retail price. Multiple retailers must stop using potatoes as a tool in their price wars and respect the huge work and pride that goes into their growing and harvesting. Non-commercial growers must also respect commercial farmers in their area by not leaving unharvested potatoes to become sources of blight. We should continue to research on all aspects of plant protection including blight resistant varieties, but without the use of genetic modification."