A RALLY against the introduction of genetically modified crops drew
nearly 1000 people to the steps of the WA Parliament today, organisers
have claimed.A RALLY against the introduction of genetically modified
crops drew nearly 1000 people to the steps of the WA Parliament today,
organizers have claimed.
Farmers attending brought along goats, chickens and even a
prize-winning bull, the Conservation Council of WA said.

It said their message was that GM crops not only risked WA's reputation
as a clean, green state but might also have consequences for human
health.

An ABC report put the number of protesters at about 500.

The Conservation Council quoted conservationist and gardener Peter
Cundall as saying he was surprised by the big turn-out.

"I was absolutely astounded by the success of the rally," he said.

"I knew that GM crops and GM technology are unpopular but today just
goes to show just how unpopular it is.

"There is no question about it - the overall majority don't want GM and
the State Government must take notice and let democracy prevail."

Julie Newman, from the Network of Concerned Farmers, was also quoted
saying she was impressed by the level of support.

?I was overwhelmed with the support, not just those of who marched in
the rally but hundreds of people who voiced concerns from the side as we
marched down the street,? she said.

?I just hope that the Minister is now aware of the level of support of
people, everyday people, who have genuine concerns about GM."

The WA Liberal Party, which won government at the recent election,
campaigned with a policy of allowing the planting of genetically
modified cotton, and going ahead with commercial-size trials of GM
canola in the northern Ord River irrigation area.

Protesters heckled Agriculture Minister Terry Redman when he addressed
them today, the ABC said on its website.

Mr Redman said he had asked his department to find a forward path for
trials of GM canola in WA.

Piers Verstegen, director of the Conservation Council, said: ?It?s clear
by the number of people who came to the rally today that there is no
place for GM in WA."
www.checkbiotech.org