Ottawa, October 22, 2010 - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today issued the following statement to mark the end of National Science and Technology Week:
"National Science and Technology Week brought people together to celebrate Canada's scientific and technological history and achievements and the promise of future economic growth based on today's discoveries.
"Science, technology and innovation are essential parts of the economy. They are vital in stimulating productivity and competitiveness and in creating new jobs.
"Our government is committed to the achievement of Canada's scientific and technological potential. Earlier this month, for example, I was pleased to launch an independent expert panel to review federal support for business research and development (R&D) and ensure that the government's investment in private sector R&D is as effective as possible.
"In 2007, Prime Minister Stephen Harper introduced Canada's Science and Technology Strategy, a plan for sustained support of R&D and the commercialization of discoveries. The government remains committed to building Canada's knowledge economy, based on science and technology and the country's capacity to innovate. We want to develop the best-educated and most-skilled workforce possible.
"In the last five years, the government has invested more than $8 billion in initiatives related to science, technology and innovation."
For further information (media only), please contact:
Gary Toft
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear
Minister of State (Science and Technology)
613-943-7599
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
