Media response - GM crops

Published on 31 August 2020

Response to the Stock Journal.

• I was hoping to get an update on GM consultation by Onkaparinga council. It's on the agenda for the next council meeting, but maybe some detail around that? Maybe also how many submissions you had? And then process if council does decide to go ahead with an application?

RESPONSE

At the Elected Member Session on Tuesday 25 August, elected members heard the results of City of Onkaparinga’s community engagement, along with presentations from the Grain Producers of SA, organic certifiers National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA), and the group representing one of our region’s biggest exports, McLaren Vale Grape Wine and Tourism Association (MVGWTA).

The community engagement results were based on analysis of 314 survey responses, plus multiple submissions we received from individuals, businesses and representative associations across our city. We were pleased to get a good response from our primary producers, food processors and manufacturers, as well as general community members.

Based on the evidence, members asked that a report be brought to Council on 15 September for further consideration, with a recommendation on whether or not to make an application to the Minister.

Depending on Council’s decision at that meeting, an application may be made to the Minister for our city to be designated GM free.

Further information, including copies of the submissions we received, can be found on our Your Say site.

ENDS