Editorial - 16-6

For those standing at the gates waiting for the consultation phase of the innovation strategy to begin, you may be surprised to hear that it’s already begun. Federal officials have been fanning out across the country engaging in discussions with industry groups before the schedule has been announced.

We’re told that the other elements of the “multi-track” process will be announced in the coming days. It had better be soon. The clock is ticking on a timetable that is supposed to culminate in a national innovation summit this fall. If that wasn’t enough, the two stands of the innovation strategy — economic and education/skills — are supposed to be fused together for a grand, coherent vision of where Canada is going in the knowledge-based world of the future.

Considering the number of hands that are pushing the strategy towards the finish line, this will be no easy feat. Memories of the disastrous S&T Strategy process of the mid 1990s are still fresh in many minds, prompting some to question the possibility of a workable strategy emerging at the other end. Throw in numerous changes of key personnel at the political and bureaucratic levels over the past year, and the task before us in the next few months becomes even more challenging.

But hey, this is all about innovation and where best to demonstrate innovative leadership and critical thinking than the offices and hallways of the federal government. We look forward to seeing the consultation schedule and wish our elected and appointed officials the best of luck in realizing their lofty aspirations. And keep your eyes on the clock.

Mark Henderson, Managing Editor