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Opinion on the genetic modification of animals
Genetic modification of animals may contribute to human well being and welfare, but is acceptable only when the aims are ethically justified and when it is carried out under ethical conditions.
These conditions would include the following:
- the public's right to protection against risks as well as their right to adequate information;
- human responsibility for animals, nature and the environment, including biodiversity;
- the duty to avoid or minimize animal suffering since unjustified or disproportionate suffering is unacceptable;
- the duty of reducing, replacing and when possible refining the experimentation adopted for the use of animals in research.
In view of the consequences this technology may have for the health of humans and animals, for the environment and society, a policy of great prudence is required.
The scope of this policy should apply to:
- the making of genetically modified animals;
- the use and care of these animals;
- the release of these animals;
- putting genetically modified animals and their products onto the market (including import/export).
Concerning these points, licensing bodies in all Member States should have the task of assessing research projects and applications in the light of the above mentioned principles.
The task of these licensing bodies would include at least the assessment of:
- the objectives: transparency and ethical acceptability;
- the risks: human health, environmental impact
- animal health, welfare and care;
- the proportionality of means and ends concerning genetic modifications of animals;
- the quality of the procedures;
- the possibility of alternatives;
Great care should be taken to prevent the release into the environment of genetically modified animals capable of surviving and breeding in the wild.
Research into the ethical, philosophical and social aspects of animal biotechnology should be stimulated. Research into and monitoring of the possible consequences of animal biotechnology for the public and the environment should be supported at the European level.
There should be appropriate and understandable information for the public about genetic modification of animals and their products.
The European Institutions should strive to:
- systematically bridge the information gap;
- stimulate the dialogue between research, industry and the public;
- create platforms for participation of the public in decision making.