Editorial - 20-1

With a Conservative minority government about to assume the reins of power, the central players in Canada's emerging system of innovation face a dilemma. What's the most effective way to ensure that S&T and R&D are part of the new administration's priority agenda?

Whether it's the continuing and adequate support for basic research or new and existing mechanisms required to translate knowledge into social and economic prosperity, there's no denying the fact that innovation has a dangerously low political profile.

The current push towards an innovative economy was begun in earnest under the Chr‚tien Liberals and continued in a fashion during Paul Martin's tenure. The innovation agenda stalled in recent months, primarily due to the difficult political climate in Ottawa.

It's still too early to say what emphasis the Conservative regime will place on S&T, but the party's election platform offers little comfort. Other than a modest increase in funding for the granting councils and indirect costs, and a pledge to examine an expansion of the SR&ED tax credit program, there's little to provide guidance.

But the consequences of inaction could be devastating. It's up to Canada's innovation champions to forcefully convey the message that innovation can't be taken for granted. It deserves a place near the top of any government's list of priorities, regardless of political stripe.

It's up to all parties to recognize the importance of innovation and S&T, and work in unison to ensure Canada's place in the global knowledge-based economy.