TWO of the regions’ largest food producing councils have made opposite decisions on how to deal with the end of the state’s 16-year genetically modified (GM) crop cultivation moratorium.
Both Playford and Adelaide Plains (APC) councils discussed new legislation enacted in May which ended South Australia’s ban on farmers growing GM crops.
A clause added into the bill gives local councils the ability to apply to primary industries minister Tim Whetstone for an exemption to the new laws, and remain GM crop-free.
If councils choose to apply for an exemption, they must first hold public consultation, while those in support of ending the ban need not take action.
Playford and APC are home to major horticulture towns such as Virginia and Two Wells, while the cropping land around Mallala – in APC’s area – is considered some of the best in Australia.
At APC’s meeting last Monday, elected members voted to show its support for the end of the moratorium and to not apply for an exemption.
During debate, councillor Marcus Strudwicke was confident local residents would support GM crops being grown in the region.
“The farming community we live has supported the flexibility to choose to use genetically modified feed for some time,” he said.
“The State Government has now put in place the opportunity for that to occur, which is great.
“I don’t think there’s any uncertainty within the appropriateness of the action (council is taking).”
According to the legislation and to council’s motion, APC will never have the opportunity to apply to be GM-free again.
As reported in The Bunyip previously, both Adelaide Plains and Barossa councils will consult with residents and the agriculture industry to decide whether they will individually apply for an exemption.
APC’s southern neighbour Playford Council also met last Tuesday and discussed the GM crop legislation, but decided to hold public consultation and investigate its ability to receive an exemption.
A report presented at the meeting stated preliminary staff investigations had found producers were mostly in support of growing GM crops.
“The general response was that the growers would welcome the opportunity to grow current GM crops, or if new GM crops are developed in the future the ability to grow these crops if appropriate.
“There were producers who had not contemplated the issue and another who was worried by the impact of the change on the additional need to explain the issue to buyers.
“This engagement is not comprehensive or representative, but does give some insight.”
Mr Whetstone has said exemptions will only be assessed from a market value standpoint, not based on the wider public’s view on GM products.
