There is nothing now to prevent Bt crops from being grown in 2009.
 
After France invoked the safeguard clause suspending the farming of Bt maize, the European Commission called on the European Food Safety Agency to rule on the matter.  The finding has now been announced, with unequivocal confirmation that the safeguard clause ban is totally unjustified.

The EFSA announced the finding on October 29, and the position is certainly unambiguous, stating that the safeguard clause is unjustified and that the French case is unfounded, with no evidence of any risk to human health, animal health or the environment that could be attributed to Bt maize crops.  Many countries around the world, including EU Member States, are clearly convinced of this.  The figures (excluding France) show that GM maize acreage in Europe increased by 21% between 2007 and 2008, proof of the benefits of the technology.
 
Orama is obviously satisfied with the finding which came as no surprise, as the French case was based solely on political and electoral considerations.  This improper use of the precautionary principle has caused damage, with financial losses and an impact on health and the environment in areas where maize crops are prone to corn borer and stem borer attacks.
 
Orama is calling on the French government to follow the wisdom and impartiality of the EFSA and to promptly grant approval by lifting the unjust ban on Mon 810 GM maize.
 

Contacts ORAMA :
Anne KETTANEH - tél : 01 44 31 10 96 et 06 83 22 05 01
Pascal HURBAULT - tél : 01 44 31 16 25 et 06 72 42 06 36