84.7 United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization Program (FAO)
Whereas, Human survival is dependent on the preservation of a diverse genetic base on which seed breeding rests and the crucial genetic base of the world’s food supply; the seed of the earth is fast disappearing; and
Whereas, There is growing concern about the erosion of genetic materials as evidenced by the resolution adopted at the November 1983 Conference of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to provide for an undertaking on the free exchange of plant genetic resources; and,
Whereas, The Government of Canada, while not a signatory to the FAO Resolution, has stated its support of the principle of free exchange and access to plant genetic resources and is examining to what extent, if necessary, it could implement the principles contained in the FAO program;
RESOLVED, That The National Council of Women of Canada indicate to the Government of Canada endorsement of the concept of the world’s plant genetic resources being a common heritage to all humanity; and further,
RESOLVED, That The National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to implement the principles contained in the FAO program to provide for an undertaking on the free exchange of plant genetic resources.