The Honourable Ted Menzies, Minister of State (Finance), today announced new funding for the Canada Gairdner International Awards at the MaRS Centre in Toronto. This new funding is in recognition of the Gairdner Foundation’s outstanding achievements and breakthrough discoveries.
“Our Government’s top priority is jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. To remain at the forefront of the global economy, our Government is investing in the people and ideas that will produce tomorrow’s breakthroughs,” said Minister Menzies.
The Harper Government is providing an additional $2 million over the next five years to support the Canada Gairdner Awards. This new investment will enable the Foundation to partner with Canadian embassies and honour Canada Gairdner Award winners in their own countries. It will also enhance educational outreach activities involving award winners and increase the international profile of the awards.
“Over the past 50 years, the Gairdner Foundation has established a superb international reputation for its generous support of crucial medical breakthroughs,” said Minister Menzies. “Canada Gairdner International Award winners have helped produce a host of medical and pharmaceutical advances that are saving lives and improving health around the world.”
In 2008, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Gairdner International Awards and to promote exceptional achievement in health research, the Government provided the Foundation with a $20-million endowment. This has helped the Foundation to enhance its awards and expand its outreach activities.
Since 2006, the Harper Government has provided nearly $8 billion in new funding for initiatives supporting science, technology and the growth of innovative firms. These contributions are part of the Government’s commitment to support research, innovation and the exceptional people—including Canada Gairdner Award winners—who are key to ensuring Canada’s future economic prosperity and improving the quality of life of Canadians.
