These Regulations give effect to Council Directive 90/219/EEC on the contained use of genetically modified micro-organisms, and Council Directive 90/220/EEC on the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms into the environment. They provide for various procedural matters in relation to the contained use, deliberate release and placing on the market of genetically modified organisms.
The 65 regulations are divided into 8 Parts: Preliminary and general (I); Contained use (II); Deliberate release into the environment for purposes other than for placing on the market (III); Placing on the market of products containing genetically modified organisms (IV); Fees and charges (V); Advisory Committee on Genetically Modified Organisms (VI); Enforcement and regulation (VII); Monitoring and reporting (VIII).
The Regulations provide for notifications for consent, application of principles of good microbiological practice, risk assessment, reviews of consents, accident procedures, and the contents of a register of notifications. Users of genetically modified organisms are required under the Regulations to ensure that all appropriate measures are taken to avoid adverse effects on human health and the environment. A consent to place a product, containing or consisting of a genetically modified organism, on the market must include conditions relating to the labelling and packaging of the product. The Environmental Protection Agency shall appoint a committee to be known as the "Advisory Committee on Genetically Modified Organisms" for the purposes of consultation on any aspect of its functions under these Regulations. (completed by 11 Schedules)