All information received in respect of an application to release a GMO into the environment, with the exception of confidential information, will be posted on the EPA website.
In accordance with Article 15 of the Genetically Modified Organisms, (Deliberate Release) Regulations S.I. No 500 of 2003, an applicant proposing to release a GMO into the environment (for example a GM crop field trial) is required to place an advertisement in a newspaper informing the public of the proposed release. This advertisement must be published by the notifier, no more than 14 days after the Agency has acknowledged receipt of the notification.
This advertisement will invite members of the public to make representations to the EPA in relation to the proposed release.
Representations must be made in writing to EPA Headquarters within 28 days of publication of the notice. (EPA, P.O. Box 3000, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co Wexford).
Persons making representations are required to pay a fee of €10. This is stipulated under articles 15, 16 and 48 of the GMO (Deliberate Release) Regulations S.I. No. 500 of 2003.
The EPA in turn is required to acknowledge receipt of representations received from members of the public. (Article 16(4) of S.I. No 500 of 2003).
The Agency is obliged to take representations into account in reaching its decision (Article 16(4) of S.I. No 500 of 2003).
The Agency is required to inform persons who have made representations of their decision within 14 days of informing the notifier. The decision will also be made available on the EPA website.