Cotton Australia Makes Submission on Bollgard III
June 17, 2010 The Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is currently assessing a License Application from Monsanto Australia for a limited and controlled release for trials and seed increase for Bollgard III.
Cotton Australia has provided a submission supporting this request, as one of the first steps towards the commercial release of Bollgard III, which will most likely be a critical technology for the industry.
Monsanto’s proposal is for a trial that will generate data for future submissions to regulatory agencies, to breed and develop varieties using elite germplasm suitable for use under Australian conditions, and for seed increase. The trial is proposed to take place in up to 34 local government areas in New South Wales (NSW), Qld and Western Australia (WA), on a maximum total area of 1,150 ha over four years from 2010 to 2014. The GM cottons would not be used for human food or animal feed as part of the release.
A consultation Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) has been prepared, which concludes that the proposed release would pose negligible risk to human health and safety or to the environment. A range of license conditions are proposed, including measures to restrict the release to the size, locations and duration requested by Monsanto.
The Regulator has taken written submissions, including from Cotton Australia, Cotton Seed Distributors and Crop Consultants Association, which will help the OGTR make a decision on whether or not to issue the license to Monsanto.
These submissions have helped to demonstrate the need to gain access to the third generation Bt technology which will enhance the management of resistance risk further preserving the longevity of Bt technology to the Australian cotton industry.
Further information on Monsanto’s application can be obtained directly from the OGTR website .
GET THE NEWSLETTER TODAY!
