Royal Commission Heads North

Wellington - 10 November 2000: The Royal Commission on Genetic Modification is heading north next week for three public meetings, a formal hearing and a regional hui.

The Commission will be holding a formal hearing in Auckland on Monday; public meetings in Manukau City, Auckland City and Whangarei on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; and a regional hui in Whangarei on Friday.

The Commission will be holding its first formal hearing outside of Wellington on Monday. It will be hearing submissions from two "interested persons", The Northland Conservation Board and Koanga Gardens Trust, at the District Court in Auckland.

These three public meetings conclude the 15-town programme that involves the Commission traveling the length and breadth of the country.

"We started in Invercargill on 18th September and conclude on Thursday in Whangarei. We have found the meetings to be enormously informative and look forward to hearing what the people of Auckland and north have to say about the risks and benefits of genetic modification," says Commission chairman, Sir Thomas Eichelbaum. On Friday, the Commission will be hearing submissions from the tribes of Tai Tokerau at its second of 10 regional hui.

Details regarding the Commission's consultation programme are available on its website: www.gmcommission.govt.nz or by contacting the Commission office on 04 495 9151.

ENDS

The Royal Commission on Genetic Modification was established by Order in Council on 8 May 2000 and is chaired by Sir Thomas Eichelbaum. The other members of the Commission are Dr Jacqueline Allan, Dr Jean Fleming and the Rt Rev Richard Randerson. The Commission is required to report by 1 June 2001. Closing date for public submissions is 1 December 2000.

Please note: For further information, please contact: Sarah Adamson, Media Relations Officer, phone: 04 495 9151 or 021 499 510.

© Scoop Media