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[Belmopan]

Genetically Modified Organisms or GMO’s have been a hot button issue lately for farmers and consumers in Belize. That is because an initiative was underway to import genetically modified corn. But approximately fifty eight kilograms 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 bio-engineered 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 Ministry of Agriculture CEO:

“Today October seventh, 2011 we are destroying the Pioneer branded 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 Steel from the Mennonite Community at Spanish Lookout 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.