The Environmental Protection Agency has been accused of not acting in the public interest by failing to release information on the application by a US company to grow genetically modified beet in Ireland.
The Green Party food spokeswoman, Ms Paula Giles, said she had found it difficult to get details of the Monsanto firm's reply to queries raised by the EPA about its proposal to grow herbicide-resistant beet.
"In our view, it's a disgrace. At the very least, objectors should be briefed. The EPA should be seen to act openly and transparently. This information was not available under integrated pollution control licensing regulations. But we have sought it under the provisions of freedom of information legislation."
It is understood the EPA board has considered the reply but is not expected to reach a final decision on the first ever application to grow genetically modified crops in Ireland until, late next week.
