In the first Irish case of its kind, seven environmentalists are to appear in court today in Co Wexford on charges of causing criminal damage to a genetically modified crop.
The seven, who include the 84-year-old food writer and organic farmer John Seymour, are due to appear at New Ross District Court, Co Wexford.
They are alleged to have damaged a GM sugar beet trial on June 21st last at the farm of Mr Martin Foley of Arthurstown, New Ross.
He was growing the crop under licence from the Environmental Protection Agency for the US multinational Monsanto, the first company to introduce the controversial gene technology to Ireland.
The offences are alleged to have occurred after a public meeting on GM foods was held nearby at Duncannon. The meeting was addressed by the Green politicians Mr John Gormley TD and Ms Nuala Ahern MEP, and the Socialist Party TD, Mr Joe Higgins.
The three may be called to give evidence.
Several gardai and private security men were present at the site, but no arrests were made.
