A survey has found that 80 per cent of scientists working in Irish universities do not favour a ban on GM foods. However, it revealed academics have little trust in the biotechnology industry.
The findings are part of a major study of attitudes to biotechnology being conducted by Mr Shane Morris and Dr Catherine Adley, of the University of Limerick's department of chemical and environmental sciences.
While the scientists did not favour a moratorium, 87 per cent (among a sample of 114 scientists) had concerns about GM foods, which were largely based on their environmental impact. This differs from public perception surveys due to the prominence of environmental concerns.
"Health concerns were next, narrowly followed by socio-economic concerns. Ethical concerns were deemed to be of the least importance regarding GM food," said Mr Morris.
The study's initial findings are to be outlined at a Society of General Microbiology meeting at the University of Ulster, Coleraine, tomorrow.
A total of 95 per cent of respondents believed anti-GM food groups have used "scare tactics".
More than 70 per cent of the scientists rejected the industry's claim that modern biotechnology would substantially reduce world hunger. "However, a consistent majority of respondents [58 per cent] believed that there will be a reduction of herbicide use due to GM crops," said Mr Morris.
Six out of 10 respondents said they would buy GM food items if they were the same price as non-GM food - with the notable exception of baby food - while 51 per cent thought media coverage of GM food issues was unfair.
Meanwhile, Genetic Concern yesterday reiterated its concern about speculation that EU regulation of GMOs may be transferred from the new Environment Commissioner to Mr David Byrne, who has responsibility for health and consumer protection.
Such a move, said its spokeswoman, Ms Sadhbh O'Neill, "would certainly satisfy the biotechnology industry, who have not been happy with environment directorate's proposals for revision of the 90-220 directive on GMO regulation".
She added: "Given the potential impacts of GM crops on the environment it is essential that the competence over biotechnology is shared by both consumer affairs [Mr Byrne's portfolio] and environmental departments. This structure would be in a better position to meet concerns for both food safety and rigorous environmental assessment."
