Biotech industry is a pillar of growth for Canada
As our economy continues to evolve against a backdrop of rapid technological change and increased global competition, the Canadian biotech industry remains a pillar of growth for this country. It is responsible for more than 20,000 high-quality jobs and contributes more than $6-billion to the economy, while filling the role of innovation leader and destination […]
Canada’s research stars should get a shot at same funding as foreign scholars
Outstanding scholars in diverse fields are entering the Canadian academic community from abroad thanks to the Canada 150 Chairs initiative, a $117.6-million program first announced in the federal budget a year ago. Talented researchers from New England to New Zealand have taken up newly created positions in Canadian universities from coast to coast. The Canada […]
Trade tops Taiwanese envoy’s priorities
Taiwan’s new top diplomat in Canada is looking to tap into the Canadian government’s desire to diversify its trading relationships. With United States President Donald Trump looking to renegotiate NAFTA and threatening longstanding trade ties in other areas, Canada is trying to forge new trading arrangements so as not to have all its eggs in […]
Canada needs to better champion its innovative industries
Canada is home to a highly innovative and reputable aerospace industry. This is an industry that developed the Canadarm, develops aircraft used around the world, and designs innovative technologies that are used worldwide. There are more than 400 aerospace firms in Canada, which employ more than 70,000 people. While our aerospace industry is admired by industry groups worldwide […]
Trade, agriculture, innovation bureaucrats are most lobbied
The country’s most-lobbied federal bureaucrats so far this year have their hands on trade, agriculture, and innovation files, according to statistics from the federal lobbyists’ registry, with top officials at Trade, Environment Canada, and Innovation, Science, and Economic Development the most in demand. With NAFTA negotiations underway, lobbyists say it’s no surprise that Frédéric Seppey, the […]
New science policy a good first step, but scientists not fully off leash
On Monday, the Liberals rolled out a new policy, which, on its surface, aims to loosen the tongues of federal scientists, who complained of being “muzzled” under the previous Conservative government. And it wasn’t just sour grapes, either. The previous federal information commissioner, Suzanne Legault, said earlier this year that following an investigation stemming from […]
Canada does not do enough to recognize its role in high-flying history
They threw a small party the other day in Clifden, on the west coast of Ireland. You might have missed it. The party was the kick-off to the 100th anniversary of the flight of Alcock and Brown in the Vickers Vimy from St. John’s, N.L., to near Clifden in June of 1919. Canadian Ambassador Kevin […]
It’s time Canada re-engage with the UN Industrial Development Organization
It’s true that the world needs more Canada, especially the developing world. Attempts to not only alleviate the worst aspects of poverty, but to also provide a path to prosperity have been somewhat hit and miss. Governments, non-governmental organizations, faith-based groups, and billionaires all have their own programs and philosophies; the results are generally positive […]
Why Canada needs a cyber security foreign policy
War or peace in cyberspace? This basic question was the theme of a recent gathering of cyber security experts held at the Balsillie School of International Affairs in Waterloo, Ont. Unlike many such meetings, the focus was on international policy and the status to be accorded this vital, if vulnerable, environment. There has been a […]
What happens if Ontario makes good on plan to scrap cap and trade?
With the election of Doug Ford as Ontario’s next premier, the carbon market is in danger. The Quebec government plans to turn on the charm in order to keep its neighbour in the game. But what will happen if Ontario’s new Conservative government follows through with its intention to withdraw from the cap-and-trade system? Between […]
