Speaking Points
The Honourable Gary Goodyear, PC, MP
Minister of State (Science and Technology)
Winnipeg, Manitoba
September 1, 2011
Check Against Delivery
Thank you, Dr. Jayas, for the kind introduction.
It is a great pleasure to be here with you today at the University of Manitoba.
Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, our government made an unprecedented commitment to making Canada a world leader in science, technology and innovation. And we invested at a time when it was needed most—during the recent global economic recession.
The Canadian economy remains the top priority of our government. Though there remain important challenges, we remain a global leader. We are very proud of the fact that since July 2009, following the worst recession since the 1930s, almost 600,000 Canadians are back to work. This is in no small part thanks to our Economic Action Plan and our sound economic fundamentals.
Guided by the government's science and technology strategy, our investments in science and technology will help to position Canada in the global, knowledge-based economy. Our government understands this, and we have worked since our election to ensure that Canada is a leader, not only today but also for years to come.
That goal is why we are here today.
Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that our government is investing $53 million in researchers and universities across Canada to provide them with the cutting-edge equipment and facilities to be the best in the world and stay the best in the world.
Our investment is being made through the Canada Foundation for Innovation's (CFI) Leaders Opportunity Fund. Through this fund, the CFI is investing in 268 leading researchers and 207 projects at 42 Canadian research institutions, providing them with the infrastructure support they need to conduct their research.
Here in Manitoba, we are investing in five important new research projects, worth over $800,000.
I would like to take a moment to recognize Dr. John Hanesiak and his team here at the University of Manitoba. They are conducting research on storm development and early detection that is expected to reduce the vulnerability of the agricultural community to extremes in weather and thus protect the regional economy and ensure long-term sustainability. I think I speak for all of us when I say that I look forward to the results of your work and wish you great success.
Ladies and gentlemen, research projects like Dr. Hanesiak's are taking place across Canada. This work plays a critical role in mobilizing Canada's science and technology advantage. These projects will help realize the full potential of our natural resources; ensure a cleaner, safer environment; and create and help support many new high-quality jobs.
For us to carry our success forward, we must invest in the future. And it is thanks to programs like the Leaders Opportunity Fund from the CFI that we are focused not only on the challenges of today but also on the opportunities of tomorrow. I want to thank the University of Manitoba for hosting today's event—I look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen Canada's place in the global economy.
Thank you.
