As we mentioned in our presentation, it is a question of perception. The data we have come from polls in which Canadians were asked what concerned them. Some brought up allergies. These are perceptions, they are not scientifically proven. But they are widely held.
As Mr. Ellis mentioned, the risks are extremely complex and extremely numerous. There are issues of genetic contamination and there are long-term health concerns. We do not know. That is why we support the precautionary principle so strongly. Especially since, in some cases, industry data shows that 90% of some products are modified. So I assume that it is true. In Canada, the amount of modified canola is extremely high; 50% or 60% of soya and corn are modified. Inevitably, these products will show up in the food chain.
We feel that that comes with risks, but we are unable to put figures to it because we do not have the scientific data that would enable us to nail it down. But it is so pervasive that, at a minimum, the precautionary principle has to be applied. The precautionary principle states that, in the absence of certainty...When the risk is high, the principle must be applied. Science will never be able to give us 100% certainty.