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Organisation of COGEM
The chairman and the 20 members of COGEM are appointed by the Minister of Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM). The Board of COGEM appoints a further 20 associated members. All members are selected on the basis of their scientific expertise. The independent scientific members have expertise in various fields such as ecology, bacteriology, virology, genetically-modified plants and animals, zoology, public perception, or ethics. In addition, COGEM seeks the opinion of external experts in specific cases.
Board
f.l.t.r. Prof. dr. F.W.A. Brom, Dr. H.J. Schouten, Prof. dr. B.C.J. Zoeteman, Dr. F. van der Wilk, Prof. dr. L. van Vloten-Doting, Prof. dr. R.A.M Fouchier
COGEM has a board and three scientific subcommittees. The board members are the chairman of COGEM, and the chairmen of the different subcommittees. COGEM’s work is supported by a secretariat made up of a multi-disciplinary staff.
Subcommittee on Agriculture
The subcommittee on Agriculture issues scientific advice on environmental risk aspects of genetically-modified plants and associated micro-organisms, and advises on measures to control the identified risks. In most cases, these advises are linked to specific notifications. Particular attention is paid to the deliberate release of GMOs into the environment and placing on the market of GMOs.
Subcommittee on Medical and Veterinary Aspects
The subcommittee on Medical and Veterinary Aspects issues scientific advice on environmental risk aspects, and measures aimed at controlling the risks of genetic modification in the medical or veterinary field. Risk assessments include gene therapy studies, production methods of vectors and viruses, and the use and construction of genetically modified animals or micro-organisms.
Subcommittee on Ethics and Societal Aspects
The subcommittee on Ethics and Societal Aspects identifies ethical and societal aspects related to genetic modification. Particular attention is paid to the deliberate release of GMOs into the environment and the market introduction of GMOs. However, COGEM does not issue any political or policy recommendations with respect to these matters . The commission sets out the various arguments to facilitate a balanced decision-making process, which systematically takes the various arguments into account.
Staff
Dr. F. van der Wilk, Executive Director
Dr. M. Bovers, Coordinator Subcommittee Agricultural Aspects
Dr. F.H.E. Schagen, Coordinator Subcommittee Medical and Veterinary Aspects
R. Mampuys MSc., Coordinator Subcommittee Ethics and Societal Aspects
A. Box BSc., Staff
B. Erkamp MSc., Staff
F. Koning MSc., Staff
M. Scholsz, Office Coordinator
J. Heetvelt, Administrative staff