GM injunction to disallow GM planting right refused

The Land explain the result of a legal joust that infringes farmers rights.

THE Supreme Court has refused to grant an injunction preventing Western Australian farmer Mike Baxter from planting genetically modified (GM) canola.

WA’s Pastoralists and Graziers Association (PGA) welcomed the Supreme Court's decision, saying the science is now in on GM and increasing numbers of WA farmers have integrated GM technology into their farming systems.

Planting of GM canola is a lawful activity under the GM Crops Free Areas Act 2003, but Kojonup farmer Steve Marsh launched legal action against neighbour Mr Baxter two years ago after GM canola seed got onto his land, compromising his ability to sell his produce as certified organic.

“Even though Mr Baxter has been awarded costs by the court, no compensation will be sufficient to defray the anxiety and stress that has occurred over a long period of time because of the simple act of growing a safe, legal and approved crop,” PGA Western Grain Growers chairman John Snooke said....
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