Lighter sentences for GMO potato protesters
Activists who took part in a demonstration against genetically modified crops in Wetteren have received shorter sentences after a retrial
Activists who took part in a demonstration against genetically modified crops in Wetteren have received shorter sentences after a retrial in Dendermonde
Ten of the activists received suspended sentences of three months, while the man viewed by the court as the ring-leader was sentenced to six months suspended. Each of the accused also received a fine of €550.
The group are accused of causing criminal damage at the field trial in Wetteren, East Flanders, where scientists were growing a field of genetically modified potatoes. The activists claimed that not enough is known about the effects of GM organisms, and they should not be permitted to be grown on open land.
In an earlier trial in February, which the activists boycotted following the judge’s decision not to admit some video evidence, two people were sentenced to eight months each, two to six months and the rest to six months suspended.
In addition to the prison sentences, the group will also have to pay damages amounting to €25,000 to the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology, the University of Ghent and the Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, which were organising the trial.
