Universities emerge as biggest lobbyists in August, according to registry
While students were enjoying their summer breaks last month, university administrators were busy lobbying the federal government on a wide range of issues, including science, aboriginal affairs, and immigration. The University of Alberta was the source of the most communication reports filed on the federal lobbyists registry in August with 25. Second was the University […]
Politics this morning: Trudeau, Bibeau in New York City
Today is Tuesday, September 20. Here are the seven political events happening today that you should know about: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will give his first address as prime minister at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City today. He will likely try to rebrand Canada to the multilateral organization, which the previous […]
Public affairs and public consultations: a match made in Ottawa?
Over the course of this past summer, the federal government has been seeking Canadians’ input on a wide range of issues. Given the renewed role of public consultation in policy-making, we thought to take a look at what was happening with the innovation agenda consultations and explore the implications for the practice of public affairs. […]
Canada needs more humility, less boasting about Canadian values
TORONTO—On his arrival in China earlier this month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was very much the centre of attention. The Chinese leadership, with their well-known reputation for being warm and welcoming hosts, rolled out the red carpets as Trudeau enthused about reinvigorating the bilateral relationship, applying to join China’s Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, promising the […]
Don’t skip the early-career scientists when doling out research dollars
At first glance, the parade of cabinet ministers on university campuses across Canada yesterday might have looked like evidence of a new era in federal support for science. Scott Brison was on hand at Dalhousie University in Halifax, which will work with the University of Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland’s Memorial University on a multidisciplinary […]
Investing in innovation: getting to three per cent of GDP
In a global knowledge economy, Canada’s competitiveness depends more than ever on increasing our capacity for research and innovation. Despite having some of the best universities, most talented researchers, and innovative companies, many Canadians would be surprised to learn just how far behind we are internationally when it comes to our support for research. A […]
Advancements in biotech and life sciences provide robust benefits for Canada
As minister of innovation, science, and economic development, my top priority is the development and implementation of an inclusive innovation agenda that positions Canada as a global centre for innovation. In so doing, the agenda will create well-paying jobs for the middle class, drive growth across industries, and improve the quality of life of all […]
Legal status of patented genes in Canada remains unclear, though recent settlement should defuse tension, say experts
A landmark settlement reached earlier this year over diagnostic testing is being lauded as a potential solution to the ethical and legal quagmire presented by genes patented by private companies. Work is currently underway to help develop a framework for provincial governments, on behalf of their publicly-operated hospitals, to appeal for legal use of patented genetic material […]
Investing in science drives innovation
Science policy in Canada should create an environment that encourages Canadians to lead in research, to drive innovation, and should result in economic growth and jobs through effective commercialization. As the critic for science for the official opposition, the approach taken this parliamentary session was a fresh perspective; to collaborate with the minister of science […]
Biotechnology and Life Sciences
