NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
WRITTEN REPLY
QUESTION 1975
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES:
Mr R N CEBEKHULU (IFP) TO ASK THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND
FISHERIES
QUESTION:
(1)Â Â Â Â Â Â What are the effects of genetic engineering on biodiversity
through gene flow modified crops;
(2)Â Â Â Â Â Â whether any long-term research is being conducted into the
effects of genetic engineering on (a)(i) human and (ii) animal health and
(b) the environment;
(3)Â Â Â Â Â Â whether her department is applying the precautionary principle
and adopting policy which promotes organic farming practices;
(4)Â Â Â Â Â Â whether her department supports research into methods of reducing
the impact of agriculture on the environment;
(5)Â Â Â Â Â Â whether she can elaborate on the health problems that are
associated with the herbicides (a) glufosinate and (b) glyphosate they want
to use?   NW2331E
REPLY:
1. Gene flow is a normal biological process where genetic material is
transferred between sexually compatible species. Specific genes (the
âtransgeneâ) or traits may be transferred between such species and
become established in the receiving species. If the transgene confers a
specific competitive advantage to the receiving plant it may become
invasive. Most cultivated plants have been domesticated to such an
extent that they cannot persist in an environment without human
intervention.
Gene flow is a major concern when GM crops are grown in areas close to
their native wild relatives (such as in the so called âcentres of
originâ or centres of high biodiversity). SA is not a centre of origin
for any of the GM crops approved for cultivation.
2. The multi-disciplinary decision-making process as provided for under
the Genetically Modified Organisms Act provides for the departments of
Health and Environmental Affairs to regulate matters concerning health
and environment, respectively.
3. The Department applies the precautionary approach in its decision-
making process by imposing specific risk management and mitigating
measures in all activities involving genetically modified organisms, on
a case-by-case basis as determined under the Genetically Modified
Organisms Act, 1997.
The Department has developed a National Policy on Organic Production
which covers organic food production, farming systems and trade.
Consultation on this policy has reached an advanced stage.
4. Yes, the Department promotes and supports farming practices and
management systems that are environment friendly. In particular, we are
currently funding a research project that encourages agricultural
practices capable of mitigating climate change and adapting to adverse
effects of climate change.
5. The department can only respond to the toxicity of the two products
which is considered during evaluation of the safety assessment of the
herbicides.
Glyphosate is of relatively low oral and dermal acute toxicity. It has
been placed in Toxicity Category III for these effects (Toxicity
Category I indicates the highest degree of acute toxicity, and Category
IV the lowest). Exposure to workers and other applicators is known to
cause irritations to skin and eyes humans.
Glufosinate is classified by the World Health Organization as slightly
hazardous. There are some studies that indicate that glufosinate is
toxic to skin, may cause serious damage to eyes, impair fertility and
cause damage to organs (nervous system) through prolonged or repeated
exposure if swallowed.