Government Presses On with Gene Technology Bill Amid Setbacks

The New Zealand Government remains committed to advancing the controversial Gene Technology Bill, despite facing significant opposition from coalition partner New Zealand First. On Monday, Shane Reti, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, confirmed that discussions will continue, even as the Parliament’s Health select committee delivered a fragmented report on the proposed legislation.

The select committee’s report revealed that parties including Labour, the Greens, Te Pāti Māori, and New Zealand First declined to support the bill, even with amendments suggested during discussions. This unanimous rejection has left the Government without sufficient backing to move the bill through Parliament.

The Gene Technology Bill aims to amend the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act, thereby simplifying the approval process for gene editing and genetic modification in both laboratories and agricultural practices. Reti emphasized that he has been engaging in productive conversations with New Zealand First, which he hopes will yield results.

As early as August 2023, it became apparent that the bill faced substantial challenges. It was originally crafted to fulfill a pre-election commitment by the National Party to dismantle what they termed an “effective ban” on genetic engineering in New Zealand. Critics argue that the bill could shift the regulatory landscape too far, potentially positioning New Zealand as a test site for genetically engineered (GE) trials that would be prohibited in other countries.

Reuben Davidson, Labour’s spokesperson for science, technology, and innovation, expressed concerns earlier this year, stating that the proposed changes could result in New Zealand becoming a hub for GE experimentation.

While the dairy cooperative Fonterra did express conditional support for legislative changes, it cautioned that stronger regulations are necessary to mitigate risks, such as genetically modified cows inadvertently entering the national dairy herd. Fonterra’s concerns also extend to the potential impact on organic farming, highlighting that genetically modified rye grasses and other materials could be challenging to contain.

In its report on the legislation, New Zealand First clarified that it does not oppose the responsible use of GE technologies but finds the current bill excessively liberal. “The bill as it stands is far too liberal, beyond our key trading partners, and lacks strong safeguards and protections,” a spokesperson stated.

Despite the setbacks, Reti noted a positive aspect: all parties involved in the select committee acknowledged the need for modernizing and updating existing regulations. New Zealand First has indicated its willingness to continue discussions regarding the bill’s shortcomings with coalition partners.

As the Government seeks to navigate this contentious issue, the future of the Gene Technology Bill hangs in the balance, highlighting the complexities of balancing innovation with public safety and environmental concerns.