Management of genetic technology in New Zealand

Abstract

The development and field testing of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in New Zealand is currently regulated by two advisory committees administered by the Ministry for the Environment (MfE). Firstly, the Advisory Committee on Novel Genetic Techniques (ACNGT) is responsible for contained laboratory and glasshouse genetic manipulation work which can be terminated at any point without loss of containment. Secondly, the GMO Interim Assessment Group (IAG) for the field testing or release of GMOs advises the Minister for the Environment on all applications to field test, import, or perform large‐scale fermentations involving GMOs. Neither of these advisory committees has any legislative authority. In part to address this, the Government intends to establish an independent agency, the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA). The ERMA will be responsible for assessing and licensing hazardous substances and new organisms, including all genetic manipulation work in New Zealand and the importation or release of new organisms. Legislation which will provide detail on the proposed new agency's objectives and functions and the decision criteria which will govern its work is being drafted and the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Bill is expected to be introduced in 1994. Until the ERMA is established, the MfE will continue its responsibilities for administration of the two advisory committees.