Speaking Points

The Honourable Gary Goodyear, PC, MP
Minister of State (Science and Technology)

Genome Canada Announcement

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
April 20, 2009

Check Against Delivery

Thank you.

And thank you, Dr. Stiller, for inviting me to join you here today.

I want to begin by congratulating Genome Canada, Genome Prairie and all of the successful scientists and researchers whose projects will receive funding under today's announcement.

Looking at the successful applications, it is clear that the quality of science in this country is truly world class and that, when it comes to genomics, our best is among the very best.

Today is a great example of why our government recognizes the importance research excellence plays in furthering innovation and competitiveness, two main elements in our Science and Technology Strategy. This is why we announced a $5.1-billion investment in science and technology in Budget 2009 — Canada's Economic Action Plan. Supporting research in Canada promotes job creation, enhances Canadians' quality of life and strengthens the economy for future generations.

You know, I always tell people that I have the best job in government. And not just because I get to make major funding announcements like this. I have the best job, and, in many ways, the most hopeful job, because I get to see, on a daily basis, what science and technology are doing in this country, what they mean to this country — to its future and the prosperity of Canadians. That's because science holds the key to so many of the challenges before us. From disease to climate change, the provision of fresh water and more abundant crops.

And nowhere is the potential greater, the outlook more exciting, than genomics. A truly revolutionary field of study. One that is providing insights into the workings of our genes — the instruction manual for life itself.

Today, I am pleased to announce that the Government of Canada, in partnership with Genome Canada, is investing $53 million to continue that commitment to scientific excellence through 12 new genomic research projects in the areas of agriculture, forestry and bioproducts. When leveraged with contributions from domestic and international partners, a total of $112 million will flow to Canadian research and sustain 250 high-quality jobs.

The projects we fund today will continue to advance Canada's reputation as a leader in this exciting new frontier of knowledge:

• lessening our dependence on fossil fuels;
• harnessing organisms to decrease the environmental impact of hydrocarbons;
• sequencing key components of the diverse sunflower family;
• creating new systems of pest control;
• unlocking the potential of plant enzymes;
• offering new insight into non-coding DNA;
• expanding technologies to reduce the environmental impacts of industrial processes; and
• helping us better predict feedstock supply.

Three of the 12 successful applications are Genome Prairie projects. The research undertaken by Drs. Phillips and Castle will expand our understanding of how scientific discoveries move from the laboratory to the marketplace, identify new models of governance for breakthroughs and engage the public in how new agricultural technologies and products are developed.

The research undertaken by Drs. Rowland and Cloutier will enhance the benefits of one of our most common plants — flax. By developing a complete sequence, Canadians will propel flax research forward, expand our markets and help reduce disease.

And the project being undertaken by Drs. Levin and Sparling will establish Canada as a world leader in developing viable, renewable and sustainable energy systems and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Two of the three Genome Prairie projects will be carried out right here at the University of Saskatchewan — building on regional strengths and bolstering local development.

Our government is committed to ensuring that Canada remains the best place for scientists and researchers to pursue their ideas. Why? Because ideas propel prosperity. Imagination and innovation create opportunity.

That is why we invest more than $10 billion in science and technology every year. It's why the Prime Minister launched a comprehensive Science and Technology Strategy in 2007 — and why our government has committed significant new funding to advance its goals in every budget since coming to office — including $240 million for Genome Canada over the next four years.

So congratulations again to all of the successful applicants. Like all Canadians, I am proud of the quality of our scientists and researchers and look forward to the new opportunities you will create for all of us.