Notice to media

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA RESPONDS TO GREENPEACE CANADA PETITION

OTTAWA, December 11, 2003 - The Government of Canada today responded to questions from Greenpeace Canada about the regulation of genetically engineered wheat and its potential impact on the future of agriculture in Canada. On August 1, 2003, Greenpeace filed 12 questions through a petition process administered by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada and the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development.

This response was prepared by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) in consultation with other Departments and Agencies named in the petition. These were the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Environment Canada, Finance Canada, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Health Canada, Heritage Canada, Industry Canada Natural Resources Canada and the Secretary of State for Western Economic Diversification. The document is posted on the website of the CFIA Office of Biotechnology site under Reports.

The Government of Canada's response builds on previous responses to petitions submitted under the Auditor General Act. Together, these responses provided an in-depth look at the existing regulatory system for biotechnology - aspects covering health, the environment, trade and socio-economic questions - as they pertain to regulations and sustainable development in this country. Canada has one of the safest and most effective regulatory systems for biotechnology products in the world.

The Government of Canada is aware of the many complex issues surrounding genetically engineered crops and is committed to ensuring that the introduction of new crops is done in a responsible manner that will satisfy consumers' requirements and result in net benefits to Canadian farmers. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada officials are currently working with stakeholders to consider various approaches to address industry concerns regarding the introduction of new crop varieties.

The Government of Canada will continue to ensure that the products and processes of biotechnology are subject to the highest standards of scientific testing for health, safety and environmental impact. Responsible stewardship of human health, biodiversity and the environment is a central priority to the federal decision-making framework for biotechnology.

For additional information, please visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Science Branch, Office of Biotechnology website: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/sci/biotech/bioteche.shtml .

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For further details, media may contact:

Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa
(613) 759-7972