Uber cranks up federal lobbying to fight requirement to charge HST
Three years since launching its alternative transportation service in Canada, Uber has recently become a significant lobbying presence federally in reaction to changes introduced in this year’s budget. Uber Canada Inc., the Canadian division of Uber Technologies Inc., has five active registrations in the federal lobbying registry, all of which are no more than a […]
Accelerating innovation for jobs and growth
When my father left India for Canada in the 1970s, he had five dollars in his pocket and no friends or family here. But he was an ambitious risk taker. He worked three jobs, while my mother worked the overnight shift at a cookie factory. Their hard work eventually allowed my father to start his […]
Trump’s backward move on climate change disadvantages U.S.
U.S. President Donald Trump just hammered another nail in the American coffin. In his petulant conversations about pulling out of the global climate change consensus, he is labouring under the misimpression that his withdrawal would influence the agreement. Instead, he is reinforcing the impression that his leadership is leading the United States down the wrong […]
Skilled trades must remain part of conversation on innovation, say advocates
As the Trudeau government seeks out avenues to bolster innovation, advocates are urging Ottawa to tap into the opportunities available in the skilled-trades field, arguing innovation isn’t restricted to the digital sphere. Bob Blakely, operating officer for Canada’s Building Trades Unions, which represents more than 500,000 construction workers, argued that not only have technological advancements […]
Superclusters: time for all the players to step up
This government is investing heavily in the idea of superclusters, and it might be just what is needed to turn Canada into the innovation nation it strives to be. By challenging industry to make meaningful, tangible investments in innovation, the $950-million of federal funds put towards this initiative stands to make a real and lasting […]
Innovation agenda about creating good-paying jobs, says Bains
For Navdeep Bains, the goal is simple. Whether it’s superclusters, skills upgrading, or university research, the minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development says the Trudeau government’s innovation-steered investments are being trotted out to accomplish one immensely important task—to create jobs, and good-paying, middle-class supporting jobs, at that. And while that may be easier said […]
Research and Innovation: 06-05-2017
Where will the future of jobs come from?
TORONTO—One of the greatest uncertainties facing our economy is the future of work. Where will the future jobs come from? What kind of jobs will they be? Will future job trends lead to greater or less inequality? How do we prepare today’s school children when we don’t even know what kind of jobs there will […]
Fundamental science, innovation don’t need to be seen in opposition
In current policy discussions, fundamental science and innovation are often placed in opposition to one another. Is it possible to resolve this apparent conflict, and to optimize the value of government research investment, by strengthening the continuum from basic research to innovation? The question arises, in part, from the excellent recommendations of the recently released […]
Senate studying role of robotics in health care
Robotics have a growing and essential role in the health-care systems in Canada and a Senate study into the issue is hoping to shed light on where the technology can best help Canadians. The Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology is studying into the role of robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence […]
