Campaigners slam proposed GM potato trial in Meath

Environmental campaigners have expressed concern about the possibility of genetically-modified potatoes being grown in Ireland.

The German company BASF has applied for a licence to conduct field trials with a blight-resistant crop in Co Meath this April.

Opponents of the move have until next Wednesday to submit their views to the Environmental Protection Agency, which will then decide whether to grant the licence.

Speaking about the matter yesterday, Michael O'Halloran from the campaign group GM-Free Ireland claimed research had found that there was a high risk of the GM crop contaminating Irish potatoes.

He also claimed health risks associated with GM potatoes had not been adequately addressed, including the risk of allergies and toxic effects in humans and animals.