Charles Has Come A Cropper Over GM Says TD

The Fine Gael Agriculture spokesperson, has criticised Prince Charles' recent comments that the development of GM Food would be the "biggest environmental disaster of all time."

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, the Prince of Wales added that relying on "gigantic corporations" for food production, rather than small farmers, would lead to an "absolute disaster", and to "count me out."

However, the Prince has come into widespread criticism for his comments from scientists and politicians alike, who have accused him of abusing his position.

Commenting on the Prince's remarks, Fine Gael TD, Michael Creed said farmers have suffered at 'disjointed' Government policy on this issue, having to pay premium prices for non-GM feed while competing against third world meat products produced with GM feed.

"We are currently living in an age where food security is emerging as a real political issue. Food prices are rising exponentially, land for food production is becoming scarce, food shortages and famines are already occurring in many countries," said Minister Creed.

"Advances in the study of bio-technology cannot be ignored as a potential solution to the food security issue, and must be explored openly and comprehensively before any conclusion may be reached.

"For an individual as high profile as Prince Charles, to scaremonger in this manner is unhelpful to the GM debate."

(DW)