Yet another plot of land planted with GM maize has been vandalised, and with total impunity, in the Gers region.  It is all very well to hear the Minister of Agriculture speaking out against this, and to have instructions given to regional Préfets, but action must be taken to deal with these law-breakers.

Do something or just let things happen?  What is the difference?  This is the feeling of maize farmers and others across the industry in response to even more vandalism targeting plots of GM maize being grown legally, with an approved variety.  Vandals destroyed 2.8 hectares while police stood by, taking no action as the offence was being committed.
 
The French association of maize farmers (AGPM) intends to make a firm and solemn statement, reiterating its severe condemnation of such acts which should be dealt with through immediate court hearings and verdicts, together with compensation for damages, and not just financial damage, but also personal damages as the farmers concerned and their families are now in a state of shock after encountering the violence deployed by these vandals and seeing the impunity they appear to have.
Action which destroys crops, damages facilities, and exercises a psychological attack on farmers and their families is not perpetrated by farmers.  No.  This is done by extremists from quite different horizons for whom farming has no value and who have no respect for the fruits of labour.
 
The maize growers concerned, and all farmers, shall not remain impassive.  National authorities must not sit back waiting for things to reach crisis point or for a dramatic event to occur.