The time is right to have a discussion around gene technology.

For nearly 30 years New Zealand has taken a cautious approach to gene technologies.

But the reality is that science and research in this area has matured, and we now know much more about the uses, benefits and risks of gene technology.

We are effectively missing out on key innovations to treat cancer, boost crops, resist disease, fight pests, adapt to climate change and protect our unique environment.

The use of gene technology could help the agriculture sector mitigate emissions and increase productivity.

For example, Crown research institute AgResearch is trialling modified white clover to reduce the methane emissions from livestock that eat it. Field trials are being done in Australia, due to our tight regulations.

In Wellington, scientists at the Malaghan Institute are engineering a patient’s own cells to fight cancer (CAR-T cells). A recent trial resulted in 50 percent of participants in complete remission for end stage lymphoma.

Other examples include gene-editing which can make a difference in the treatment for hepatitis B, haemophilia, cataracts and cystic fibrosis.

There are also options to develop heat and drought resistant crops and sterilise Douglas firs to prevent wilding pines.

Scientists at Crown Research Institutes AgResearch, Scion and Plant & Food Research have all welcomed the changes.

I acknowledge that some people are fearful of this technology.

But the new legislation will ensure strong protections for the health and safety of people and the environment.

A regulator will be established to oversee the safe use of gene technology, informed by science and evidence-based assessments.

The new legislation will be based on Australia’s Gene Technology Act 2000 and will be modified for New Zealand.

The benefits to of gene technology our country are considerable. New Zealand has outdated gene technology rules, and we are being left behind.

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