Task Force to safeguard biodiversity

Disna MUDALIGE

By drawing attention to the news item that appeared yesterday in the Daily News under the title 'Fuji Films Patent Kotala Himbutu', Science and Technology Minister Tissa Vitarana has taken immediate steps to appoint a special task force to recommend measures to safeguard indigenous biodiversity and knowledge.

"I spoke to Jagath Gunawardena and obtained the information pertaining to this matter. This patent deprives us certain advantages we could have received through this plant, since we have to oblige for patent rights. We must take measures to protect our resources without letting others exploit them," he said.

The Minister's Science Adviser Sirimali Fernando said that the task force will consist 12-15 members from different fields including science, environment, intellectual property office, customs department etc. They will provide recommendations in a report within two months.

The task force has four major areas to deal with. Firstly,identifying the threats to indigenous biodiversity and knowledge by already existing foreign patents. Secondly, identifying the potential targets among Sri Lankan biological resources for intellectual property, and recommending measures for their protection. Thirdly, developing a guideline and a mechanism for scientists for protecting indigenous biodiversity and knowledge. Finally, identifying potential deficiencies in existing regulations that could affect indigenous biodiversity and knowledge.