Industry profits override scientific findings, Endangering America’s health
US - In August of 2003 a special investigation by the Government Reform Committee found that science is taking a back seat to industry profits. Scientific Advisory Panels are being manipulated. Experts are replaced by those with strong ties to industry. And sadly the problem is worse in 2007 then before.The suppression of scientific information and distorting the facts appears to be the goal of these government advisory panels. By altering or presenting incomplete and inaccurate information. The health of America’s population is being sacrificed.
The United States Agriculture Department policy requires scientist to seek approval before doing research on “agriculture practices with negative health and environmental consequences.” Within the EPA you are not allowed to conduct analysis on air quality that differs from the clear skies initiative.
Former EPA administrator William Ruckelhaus says of this pattern “Is the analysis flawed? That is a legitimate reason for not releasing it. But if you don’t like the outcome that might result from analysis, that is not a legitimate reason.”
An agriculture department microbiologist was not permitted to publish or present the research that indicated that industrial hog farming may contribute to antibiotic resistance. This was traced back to an industry communication.
The Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) requires that federal committees be “fairly balanced in terms of points of view represented” and provide advice that will not be inappropriately influenced by the appointing authority or special interests. The CDC, FDA and EPA all seem to continue to ignore this act.
Source: American Chronicle