I was the first resident to address the Public Forum at the first Port Macquarie – Hastings Council meeting under Administrator Dick Perrson. I did not mention the Public Inquiry or the dismissal, but focused on the issue of the threat of genetically-modified crops to agriculture and the environment in the Port Macquarie – Hastings area.

Genetically-modified crops represent an unacceptable risk to both the environment and the agricultural sector of the local economy.

The hard-earned and much-prized organic status of a growing number of farms can be lost from genetic pollution caused by pollen drift.

I have asked the Administrator to pass a motion that I had on the agenda for that Council meeting, but was removed following his appointment.

I would like Council to lobby the State and Federal Governments to continue the moratorium on genetically modified crops and also put a clause in all of Council’s food purchasing contracts to be GM-free.