Forum series threatened by lack of speakers

The success of a Victorian government gene technology and biotech forum series was under threat because of a dearth of willing expert speakers, according to the Department of Human Services (DHS).

The community information forums, initiated by local councils and coordinated by DHS, have so far been held in Bendigo and Goroke, with the government hoping to run a further four to six by July.

But the manager of the DHS biotechnology safety and ethics program, Ellen Kittson, said the department found it difficult to identify appropriate speakers.

"We can't find people willing or able to provide scientific expertise," Kittson said.

She said DHS had spoken with other departments and organisations such as the Victorian Farmers' Federation with little luck.

Kittson said an important criterion was that the experts be local in order to make their presentations more relevant to local community groups.

The program is seeking people with expertise in pure science, market issues and consumer concerns to put their names on a speaker's bureau being developed for the forums.

"It is very difficult because we certainly want to be able to respond to community needs," Kittson said.

"We're looking for people who can respond to consumer concerns and also put forward the applications of biotechnology into medicine and agriculture.

"It's important to point out that this is not supposed to be all about metropolitan talking heads, but about engaging the local community itself."

People willing to participate in the program are invited to call (03) 9637 4998.