Canada Sets Up Biotech Expert PanelCanada Sets Up Biotech Expert Panel

CANADA--The Canadian government established an independent panel to advise Health Canada on the latest science concerning biotechnology. It will evaluate biotechnology's impact on the food supply and the environment, and identify certain foods that should be reviewed for safety for the next 10 years.

The government is in negotiations with Dr. William Leiss, president of the Royal Society of Canada, and Dr. Arnold Naimark, chairman of the Canadian Biotechnology Advisory Committee, in order to work out the details of what the panel's exact role will be. The initial emphasis will be on assuring safety, according to Health Minister Allan Rock.

"It will be asked to make recommendations that will allow us to continue to protect human health, animal health and the environment in Canada for the future," Rock said in a release.