Northern Ireland has banned the growing of genetically modified (GM) crops after its environment minister said he was “unconvinced of the advantages”.
Mark Durkan said the small size of many farms in Northern Ireland could pose difficulties in trying to keep GM and non-GM crops apart.
“I remain unconvinced of the advantages of GM crops, and I consider it prudent to prohibit their cultivation here for the foreseeable future,” he said.
“We are rightly proud of our natural environment and rich biodiversity. We are perceived internationally to have a clean and green image. I am concerned that the growing of GM crops – which I acknowledge is controversial – could potentially damage that image.”
The news follows Scotland’s recent decision to ban the cultivation of GM crops, after the European Union said member states could vote separately on whether to adopt GM, following approval at Brussels-level.
In England, Defra has said it will only allow GM crops to be planted and the marketing of GM food or feed products if a 'robust risk assessment indicates that it is safe for people and the environment'.
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