[11/15/06] Parana’s Government reclaims land from Syngenta

Syngenta was condemned for having an illegal GMO plantation in the state, something that is illegal in their home country of Switzerland, and a centre for agro-ecological studies will now be built in its place.

by Luís Brasilino, editorial staff of Brasil de Fato

The governor of Parana, Roberto Requiao, signed a decree yesterday confirming the repossession of a 300-hectare area from Syngenta in Santa Teresa Do Oeste (in the west of Parana). In March, 600 members of ‘Via Campesina’ occupied the land to highlight the breaking of federal and state laws by the Swiss multinational producer of genetically modified seeds and agrochemicals.

The company, one of the world’s largest seed producers, was conducting experiments with genetically modified maize and soya in the protected neighbouring zone of the Iguacu National Park.

This is a huge crime against bio-security, therefore presenting a risk of genetic contamination. Furthermore, the Iguacu park was recognised, in 1986, as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

“(The punishment) is one of the greatest victories in the defence of biodiversity in the world