IN THIS ISSUE

HSNO Implementation Slips
HSNO Amendment Bill No. 2 Passed
New ERMA New Zealand Board Members
Passing the Baton at PACIA
Resource Management Act (RMA) Amendment Bill
1080 Poison in the Headlines
Controversy over Mill Discharges
Environmental Reporting Disappoints Researcher
Royal Commission Explores Genetic Modification
ACC Levies Fall
New Employers Interest Group Formed
New Code for Industrial Bargaining
New Zealand Leads Free Trade Initiatives
Asia Pacific Responsible Care Conference Successful
Wellington Makes a Trunk Call!
Plastics Industry Rewards Success
National Chemical Data Base Close
Hazardous Substances Officers Conference
Handling Empty DG Containers
Environmental 'Clip Board'
Definition of Hazardous Waste

Introduction

It seems the whole world may be anxiously awaiting the report of our Royal Commission into genetic modification.

The year long inquiry is understood to be the first time an independent body has attempted to review the scientific, social and environmental issues arising from this very controversial subject and reach some conclusions regarding the desirability of New Zealand pursuing this promising technology.

It is not difficult to appreciate society's concerns. Faced with conflicting opinions about safety issues and trying to make sense of an issue which challenges one's ethical stance and technological understanding, the community is uneasy.

Science is about predicting outcomes with a high degree of certainty, yet the science community's ability to prove beyond any reasonable doubt genetically modified plants and animals are safe could require years of comprehensive testing and monitoring before such assurances can be given.