Keep Victoria GE-free: Public forum

Come along to a free public forum to hear expert scientists and farmers discuss the future of GE canola in Victoria.

When: Thursday, 21 June 21, 2007, 6pm-7.30pm
Where: The 60L Building, 60 Leicester Street, Carlton, Vic
Cost: Free
More info: Email Louise Sales, Greenpeace GE campaigner louise.sales@au.greenpeace.org

Forum speakers:

• Dr Maarten Stapper, former CSIRO scientist and organic farming expert
• Dr Judy Carmen, epidemiologist, biochemist and director of the Institute of Health and Environmental Research
• Julie Newman, former vice president of WA Farmers Federation Grains Council and National; Network of Concerned Farmers spokesperson

Key ministers in the Victorian government have already indicated they want an end to the GE canola ban. A new inquiry into the issue will deliver findings as early as August 2007. Pressure is mounting to end the GE canola ban even before it expires in February 2008.

Why we should keep the ban

Without the current ban, our canola fields could be permanently contaminated by GE canola. Growing scientific evidence says that GE food crops, like herbicide- resistant GE canola, damage ecosystems and could harm our health. Just like cane toads, once this hazard is introduced it can never be recalled. Canola is used in many of the foods we eat every day.

Come to the public forum to learn more and show your support for the GE ban! The forum is hosted by Greenpeace and GeneEthics.