Glyphosate

1.8.2011

Question for written answer E-007708/2011
to the Commission
Rule 117
Linda McAvan (S&D)

There have been several recent and worrying reports in relation to Glyphosate — the active substance used in the best-selling pesticide ‘Round Up’ — which highlight concerns about possible birth defects, and show that weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to the pesticide.

The re-assessment of Glyphosate was originally scheduled for 2012, however the Commission has recently delayed the deadline until 2015. While it is to be welcomed that the re-assessment will be done according to the tougher rules on pesticide approval under the new Pesticides Regulation, this has come at the cost of a three-year delay in the review.

In view of the recent concerns about Glyphosate, does the Commission consider that the substance should be re-assessed as a priority, and if possible ahead of the 2015 deadline?

OJ C 146 E, 24/05/2012