The cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops is being prohibited in Northern Ireland, Environment Minister Mark H. Durcan announced today.

Making the announcement, Durcan said: “I remain unconvinced of the advantages of GM crops, and I consider it prudent to prohibit their cultivation here for the foreseeable future.”

In the EU, GM crops must be formally authorised before they can be cultivated. The EU directive on the deliberate release into the environment of GM organisms outlines the procedure for growing and marketing GM crops in Europe.

An amendment made to the directive earlier this year allows member states and devolved administrations to restrict or prohibit the cultivation of GM crops within their administrative region.

Keeping GM and non-GM crops separate

Explaining the decision, Durcan said that the size of agricultural holdings and pattern of land use in NI would make it difficult and costly to keep GM and non-GM crops separate here.

He added: “We are rightly proud of our natural environment and rich biodiversity. We are perceived internationally to have a clean and green image. I am concerned that the growing of GM crops, which I acknowledge is controversial, could potentially damage that image.”

Scotland and Germany announced a blanket ban on GM crops under the new European rules in August. Last Thursday, France followed suit with a similar move.

New guidelines drawn up on authorisation to renew GMO food and feed

Environment Minister bans GM crops in Northern Ireland

The cultivation of genetically modified crops is governed by individual member states in the EU and today has been banned in Northern Ireland by Environment Minister Mark H. Durcan.