GMO labelling: Government chooses secrecy

OTTAWA – In a vote on Wednesday evening, the Liberal government defeated a bill introduced by MP Pierre-Luc Dusseault (Sherbrooke) to make labelling mandatory for genetically modified foods.

“Like most Canadians, I believe that we have a right to know what’s in the foods we’re eating,” said Mr. Dusseault, “and I had hoped that my colleagues in the House would feel the same way.”

Roughly 80% of Canadians are in favour of GMO labelling, but the Liberal government decided to ignore Canadians’ concerns and side with large agri-food businesses instead. Pierre-Luc Dusseault was frustrated by how the situation played out.

“I am very disappointed with the results of tonight’s vote,” he said. “The Prime Minister himself recognized Canadian consumers’ right to know what’s in their food, and he campaigned on promises of transparency and openness. Once again, he has broken his word.”

“My bill was simple and straightforward,” he said. “Consumers want to have more information on the foods they eat, and my bill would accomplish that. It’s hard to understand how MPs, who are supposed to represent their constituents, can vote against a bill that has the support of so many Canadians.”