FoE highlights GMO concerns

A local environmental group says we need to consider the dangers it claims are posed by genetically-modified food.

The Isle of Man Friends of the Earth staged a march through Douglas town centre on Saturday afternoon, in protest at bio-tech firm Monsanto and to raise awareness of the company’s use of genetically modified organisms.

Around 30 people, including Environment Minister Phil Gawne, supported the walk, one of many simultaneous events being held worldwide.

Although there is no GMO agriculture on the Island, Friends’ secretary Cat Turner says it doesn’t stop it existing in much of our food.

UK Environment Secretary Owen Paterson has hit out at campaigners such as Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth who, he said, were scuppering crucial nutrition programmes in the developing world.

He has spoken of the potential benefits of GM farming and says GM crops have the potential to improve the environment and save lives.