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Biotechnology Questions

The Independent Biotechnology Advisory Council (IBAC) has released a consultation booklet which presents issues around biotechnology and poses a number of questions for public feedback.

IBAC comprises 10 eminent scientists and prominent citizens from a wide range of disciplines. It also aims to stimulate dialogue and enhance public understanding of biotechnology and to inform Government's consideration of the environmental, economic, ethical, social and health aspects.

"Our role is not to try and achieve consensus on biotechnology issues, nor simply to allay fears. We value our independence highly. From time to time, we will make recommendations to the Government on some aspects of biotechnology," the Council's Convenor, Professor Peter Gluckmann says.

Feedback from the booklet will be analysed by an independent Christchurch-based research team. The public consultation process will also include focus group meetings and meetings with interest groups and key stakeholders. The consultation is due to be complete by late November.

Gluckmann says public consultation is central to IBAC'S brief.

"We're here to promote constructive dialogue and to facilitate the best way forward for New Zealand on questions of biotechnology. "

The free booklet is available at public libraries and Citizens Advice Bureaux, or can be ordered from info@ibac.org.nz or by phoning 0800 50IBAC (0800 504222).