EPA GMO Technology Conference, 10th- 11th October 2013

Date released: Sep 20 2013

20th September: The EPA is to host a conference about the regulation and use of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in technology in Ireland on 10th and 11th October.  The two day conference will be held in the Printworks, Dublin Castle.

Speakers will deal with a range of topics from the regulation of GMO technology in Ireland, Europe and internationally, to its use in industry sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, animal health, chemicals, paper, fuel, food and feed processing.

Speaking before the Conference, Dara Lynott, EPA Deputy Director General said:

“Modern Biotechnology is considered a key technology of the 21st century. The EU has adopted Biotechnology as an integral part of the EU economy for job creation and sustainable development.  The purpose of this Conference is to bring together those engaged in GM technology to develop a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this area for Ireland and Europe.” 

Delegates will hear from Professor David McConnell, Trinity College Dublin; Professor Mark Ferguson DG SFI; Dr Barry Heavey, IDA; Dr Matt Moran, IBEC; Dr Enda Moran, Pfizer; Dr Pat O Mahony, FSAI; Dr Ewen Mullins, Teagasc; Professor Samuel McConkey, Beaumont Hospital; Dr Mick Morris, Irish Medicines Board and Dr Tom McLoughlin, EPA.

Further information 

The Conference Programme and Registration Form are available on the EPA website.

Notes to Editor:

The aim of the conference is to discuss:

  • The importance of GMO technology for the BioPharma sector in Ireland;
  • The use of GMO technology in human clinical/gene therapy trials;
  • The latest Research on GMO Technology
  • Assessing and monitoring the impact of GM crops relevant to Irish agriculture;
  • Communication of risks to the public regarding GMO technology;
  • The regulation of GMO technology in Ireland

Further information: Emily Williamson/Annette Cahalane, EPA Media Relations Office 053-9170770 (24 hours) or media@epa.ie