Gene technology regulator takes up position

Dr Meek is the first appointee under the Gene Technology Act 2000, which provides a comprehensive legal framework for the regulation of genetically modified organisms in Australia in order to protect human health and safety, and the environment.

Dr Meek, who has extensive experience in the development and implementation of public policy in the science and technology arena, said she was looking forward to the challenges ahead as the public's watchdog on this new technology.

"I am a firm believer in the appropriate use of science and technology, and that includes having regulatory systems in place to ensure there are safeguards for the community and the environment," Dr Meek said. "As the Regulator, I am neither a proponent, nor critic, of gene technologies, but it is my job to vigorously implement the new laws which govern the development, trial and release of GMOs in the best interest of all Australians."

"Science and technology are major drivers of change in our society and economy. It is important that we increase public participation in decision making regarding their use. The Gene Technology Act 2000, with its extensive provisions for community input, is an important forum for such debate," she said.

Dr Meek said that the vast majority of the genetic manipulation work being carried out in Australia was experimental and taking place in contained facilities. However, some is now reaching trial stage, which will involve limited and controlled releases into the environment.

"Already I have a number of applications before me for proposed trials of genetically modified cotton, canola and poppies and, in line with the emphasis on transparency in decision making contained in the Act, full details of these applications will be made available to the public on the website."

"The public will also have the opportunity to comment on the risk assessment and management plans that will be developed for each trial application and I will also be taking into consideration the views of a wide range of experts including the newly established Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee," Dr Meek said.

Two other expert committees have been established under the Act to provide advice on ethical issues and matters of general concern to the community in relation to GMOs. Dr Meek said the Australian community was very fortunate to have such an impressive group of people serving on the three advisory committees. "The GTTAC has already met once, the ethics committee will meet before the end of the year and the community consultative committee will meet early next year," she said.