GM crop destruction seen as unacceptable

The Australian Academy of Science has condemned the destruction of a scientific trial of genetically modified crops at CSIRO in Canberra by Greenpeace activists.

“The academy condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms,” said Academy President Professor Suzanne Cory.

“This kind of mindless vandalism against science is completely unacceptable.”

Professor Cory said scientists must be free to conduct their work without fear or favour.

“The trials are being conducted under licences from the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator which impose strict containment conditions,” Professor Cory said.

“These conditions have been deliberately breached by Greenpeace.

“For an organisation that claims to be dedicated to the protection of the environment, this is an unconscionable act.”