Talking about gene technology: A New Zealand perspective

Today I am going to give you an overview of events and situations in New Zealand in the area of public perception. Some of these, particularly in public acceptance of the technology, are quite different in New Zealand from here in Australia. However, with CER and the increasing sharing of legislation such as food standards, we are likely to have a lot more in common in future. So I will outline for you some of the background to the New Zealand situation, and detail some specific initiatives that have been undertaken to address the need for an informed public able to participate in meaningful debate. The main focus will be on the Gene Technology Information Trust - its formation, operation and potential synergy with your GTIU.