❓ A WA parliamentary question seeks information on the traceability, recall procedures, and origin of genetically modified (GM) canola seed, highlighting concerns about seed quality and transparency. The Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) largely deflects responsibility, stating it doesn't hold the requested information or have recall powers.
AnsweredQoN 633Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
(1) How are purchasers of Genetically Modified (GM) canola seed informed of the origin of the seed? (2) If GM canola growers sign a grower agreement with Monsanto, why are they unable to trace where the seed originated from? (3) In the event of seed stock not germinating, is the department able to issue a general recall? (4) If yes to (3), how does the department issue the recall? (5) If no to (3), why not? (6) What is the process for analysing the cause of defective GM canola seed stock? (7) For GM canola seed stock that originates from Australia, what was the amount for each state of origin for the years: (a) 2010; (b) 2011; (c) 2012; and (d) 2013? (8) For GM canola seed stock that does not originate from Australia, what was the amount for each country of origin for the years: (a) 2010; (b) 2011; (c) 2012; and (d) 2013?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
5 December 2013
Responded by
Minister for Agriculture and Food
Response time
14 days
(1-2) The Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) is not a purchaser of GM canola seed but understands the Australian Seed Federation National Code of Practice requires seed to be labelled with a batch or lot number which allows tracing of the seed. In addition, Australian Customs regulations require imported agricultural seeds to be marked with the name of the country in which they were produced.
(3) No
(4) Not applicable
(5) DAFWA has no legislative responsibility to recall seed. Seed purchase is a private commercial arrangement between purchaser and seller.
(6) The process is the responsibility of the owner of the seed.
(7-8) DAFWA does not have this information and suggest that the Hon. Member contact the seller of the seed.
(3) No
(4) Not applicable
(5) DAFWA has no legislative responsibility to recall seed. Seed purchase is a private commercial arrangement between purchaser and seller.
(6) The process is the responsibility of the owner of the seed.
(7-8) DAFWA does not have this information and suggest that the Hon. Member contact the seller of the seed.
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