Public debate on genetic engineering: Hope or hazard?

The Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources continues its entertaining and enlightening seminar series with its latest offering: a debate on genetic engineering to be held on July 23.

In the evening the participants will give a free public lecture on the topic too.

Canadian scientist Dr. Thierry Vrain will be debating whether genetic engineering results in hope or a hazard of the future with Mr. Robert Wager from Vancouver Island University.

The debate promises to be a showdown between the pro-GMO (genetically modified organisms) and anti-GMO, providing a rich dialogue and interaction.

Mr. Wager got involved with GMO research in 2000 when “it was clear the Internet contained a great deal of misleading or false information” and he believes GMOs are safe and do not need to be identified on labels as GMO or other precautions.

Dr. Thierry Vrain worked for 30 years as a soil biologist and genetic engineer with Agriculture Canada and was the vice-president and president of national and international associations of soil biologists, and an associate editor of several scientific journals in Europe and the USA. Dr. Vrain is no longer a supporter of genetic engineering technology and “is alarmed by the avalanche of scientific studies out of Europe raising many concerns about the long-term safety of genetically engineered foods.” Due to these concerns Dr. Vrain is dedicated to increasing public awareness about the hazards of genetically engineered foods and their production.

Two events:

What: Debate – “Genetic Engineering of Seeds: Hope or Hazard of the future?”
When: Wednesday, July 23, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Where: Room 221 of the Wallace Building (125 Dysart Rd.) on the Fort Garry campus

What: Public lecture with Dr. Thierry Vrain and Mr. Tony Mitra, a food security activist
When: Wednesday, July 23, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: Robert B. Schultz Lecture Theatre, Rm. 172 St. John’s College (92 Dysart Rd.), Fort Garry campus. (Please see the Fort Garry Campus Parking map for directions on where to park)