Kiwis urged to educate themselves on gene technology

The InterChurch Bioethics Council (ICBC) and the Nathaniel Centre for Bioethics have collaborated to produce an information resource that explains the science and some of the ethical questions this technology raises.

Between them, those groups represent the Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian and Catholic churches.

The resource outlines the benefits that can be derived from advances in gene technology, including repairing people’s genetic codes where issues are identified.

But it also asks important questions that the bioethicists fear might be overlooked.

“Before we choose to use any technology, we have a responsibility to make sure we have thought about the consequences, good and bad,” the resource proposes.

“What, precisely, are the benefits and risks involved? More importantly, how do we carry out a meaningful risk assessment when many of the risks are not easily measured or understood?”

Some people will consider potential financial gains or advances in science as reasons to pursue new technologies, but the ICBC and Nathaniel Centre suggest “a genuine assessment of the use of gene technology needs to balance economic benefits and scientific progress with human well-being and the well-being of all life”.

“Ultimately, what is required is a robust regulatory process that all New Zealanders can have confidence in, and that is transparent.”

The resource poses questions like “What is a gene?”, “What happens when you change genes in a living thing?”, and “How do we make good decisions about gene technology?”

It contains sections on the benefits of gene editing, as well as its risks.

“An informed community is a community that can make better decisions for the good of all New Zealanders,” said Dr Joy McIntosh of the ICBC.

Nathaniel Centre director Dr John Kleinsman said that, when issues are as complex as gene editing and broader gene technology, informing the public can be a great challenge.

“We are hopeful that this resource will help unravel the mysteries somewhat and start some informed conversations about this important issue that is otherwise confined to universities, medical clinics and the halls of Parliament,” he said.

“It’s an issue that many New Zealanders feel very strongly about.”

Access the ICBC and Nathaniel Centre resource at: https://bit.ly/ICBCNathaniel

The Gene Technology Bill, which aims to achieve a better alignment with recent scientific and technological advancements, is currently before the Health Select Committee. Submissions closed on February 17.

FULL STORY

https://cathnewsnz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kiwis-called-to-educate-themselves-on-gene-technology.pdf ICBC and The Nathaniel Centre