Government destroys genetically modified corn seeds
ACES may be trying to save some crocs but another initiative is underway to destroy some corn. Genetically Modified Organisms or GMO’s have been a hot button issue lately for farmers and consumers. That is because an initiative was underway to import genetically modified corn. But approximately twenty pounds of BT seeds, initially intended for use in an experiment to grow genetically modified corn locally, were destroyed by officials from the Ministry of Agriculture today. The decision to dispose of the bioengineered kernels, which were imported two weeks ago, follows Cabinet’s refusal to approve of several trial plots in the country. Earlier this year, talk of the introduction of GMO corn sparked controversy amongst farmers who are divided on the issue. In a recent interview Prime Minister Barrow mentioned that a bio-safety committee had been formed to carefully study the potentially hazardous environmental effects of growing BT corn. While the idea has not been put to rest completely, agriculture officials carried through with orders to destroy the seeds.
Gabino Canto
Gabino Canto, C.E.O., Ministry of Agriculture
“Today October seventh, 2011 we are destroying the GMO corn seeds that came into the country about two weeks ago because the cabinet did not approve the establishment of the trial plots in the country. So this is the process that we have to go through. The representatives from BAHA are here, the representatives from Midwest that brought in the seeds along with CARDI—they are here to witness everything and we have the people witnessing as well from Central Farm. So today as I mentioned we are destroying the GMO corn seeds that came into the country about three weeks ago.”
Today’s destruction of GMO corn seeds puts on hold the introduction of genetically enhanced crops in Belize.
For the long-term food security of the Belize there must be a policy regarding the use of GM seeds. Once these are introduced there is no turning back. Short term savings might lead to long-term debt and dependency on companies outside Belize for access to seeds. Caution is appropriate until the pros and cons have been weighed. The stakes are too high to just jump in and consequences be damned.
KUDOS TO GOB FOR DOING THIS. BEST NEWS EVER.
What?? Why?? Are we in the middle ages?? Just put them in quarantine until you decide if they’re safe, this isn’t the inquisition…how irrational was that?
The seeds were imported legally as part of a detailed investigation into their use in Belize. The Bio-safety Council, set up by GOB and BAHA, approved the process. It was part of a scientifically based examination of their use in Belize. USA and EU have cleared their use years ago. We in Belize have BEEN EATING food made with GM seeds for years. This stupidity is yet another example of why Belize is backward. Real progress is hampered by idiots. Don’t complain when the price of corn keeps going up because farmers have to keep using more and more pesticides. These pesticides have already started to reduce the populations of our beneficial parasitic insects which have been keeping various Citrus diseases eg Tristezia, leaf-minor and the latest Leprosis under control. GM seeds have been investigated for over 15 years and NO negative affects have been found to either animals or humans by professional science groups. Yes, some so called scientists have made assumptions on their “research” All their statements have been found to be based on “junk science”.
Is there an explanation for the Cabinet’s denial of GMOs? Id like to know the full extent of its refusal.
Is there an explanation for the Cabinet’s denial of GMOs? Id like to know the full extent of its refusal.
Why should we grow large good tasting, tender, great corn in Belize when we already have sickly, hard corn, good only for pigs growing in Belize?
Until all the Old Belizeans and their way of Thinking die off and New Young thinking Belizeans take over this country will continue to be a big fat ZERO in the world.
Hey but Wait . . . we can be proud we are # 6 in the worldwide murder rate.
GMO? RESEARCH IS ESSENTIAL! FROM WHAT I HEARD IT CAN BE DEADLY AND THE PESTICIDE MAY HARM OTHER LIVING CREATURES. IT IS A NO WIN SITUATION. BELIZE IS SMALL AND SHOULD NOT BE EXPLOITED. IT IS HAZARDOUS FOR BELIZE! PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH. IT WILL DAMAGE AND CRIPPLE OUR LITTLE NATION. CHECK ITS SOURCE. PLEASE CHECK IF IT HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED? BY WHOM? ….
The controversy continues. Just like the argument over the cause of global warming. There are pros and cons on the impact of GMO’s. Both sides alter the data and it all depends on which side will make the most money. I personally like organic vegetables and free range pollo. Since beans and rice are the staples of Belize, nothing like the all natural and real thing in my opinion. In the USA they measure a productive acre on the bushel amount thata crop yields. Again, GMMO’s have the highest yields. Does that mean the GMO product is safe and will not have long term health problems by the consumer? My crops grow great with chicken fertilizer and a log standing all natural seed. I’ll trade quality over quantity anytime….