Monsanto Australia sees uptake in GM canola
Monsanto's Australia chief Peter O'Keeffe expects a massive uptake in genetically-modified (GM) canola during the next few years.
O'Keeffe said that GM canola production had increased from 62 growers, growing 5,000 hectares in 2008 to 200 growers, growing 27,000 hectares in 2009.
The GM moratorium was lifted in Victoria and NSW in 2008. Western Australia lifted its moratorium last month, while Tasmania and South Australia remain GM-free.
At a meeting, he was questioned about segregation and safety issues by members of anti-GM lobby groups Gene Ethics and Mothers Are Demystifying Genetic Engineering (MADGE).
Gene Ethics spokesman Greg Revell said segregation of GM and non-GM canola had not been successful.