National governments will have more control over whether to allow or ban cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops on their territory. The change comes following a long debate at EU level. Only two countries opposed the changes, which mean the Irish Government will have a bigger say in our attitude to GM crop cultivation. At present, the only GM crops grown in the Republic of Ireland are Teagasc’s small experimental trial plots of GM potatoes. Predictably, both biotech companies and anti-GM environmental organisations were not enthused by this development. Greenpeace said the plans did not go far enough, while biotech companies – that invest in GM research and technology widely used outside the EU – fear it signals a move away from science-based decision making.

Oilseed rape meeting

A farm walk and information meeting relating to oilseed rape (OSR) is being jointly hosted by Monsanto, BASF, and Goldcrop next week. The event will be held on the farm of Larry and James O’Reilly, Grange, Ballyragget, on Thursday 26 July. Husbandry issues, such as OSR varieties, drilling and seeding rates, will be addressed by Barry Murphy of Goldcrop. Herbicides and fungicides will be discussed by a BASF advisor and Yvonne Murphy of Monsanto will cover dessication. In addition, Teagasc’s Dick O’Shea will discuss the new greening proposals, which will encourage tillage farmers to diversify towards more crop types. The event commences in O’Reilly’s yard at 4pm sharp.