GM helps animals say vets

Extending the moratorium on genetic modification may limit the health and welfare of livestock, the Veterinary Association says.

GM technology was already a valuable part of human and veterinary medicine worldwide, said the association's chief executive, Murray Gibb.

"Its importance in the development of safe and effective vaccines, and diagnostic and therapeutic agents is likely to increase considerably in the next few years."

Pressure groups have called on the Government to extend the moratorium, due to be lifted on October 28.

Mr Gibb said blocking access to GM animal vaccines could seriously affect New Zealand's heavy reliance on overseas production of remedies.

"An unbiased, science-based approach is essential for considering the risks and benefits of [GM] proposals."

He believed confidence in GM would grow as its benefits were identified and experienced.

- NZPA