Liberal government to re-submit S&T-rich provincial Budget following majority victory

Ontario's knowledge-based industries, research infrastructure, venture capital for the life sciences and procurement of innovative products and processes are all back on the table with the election last week of a majority Liberal government. Investments in these areas and more were contained in the Liberal government's May 1st Budget, which was rejected by the opposition parties, sending Ontarians to the polls (R$, May 7/14).

In her acceptance speech, premier Kathleen Wynne pledged to re-submit the Budget to the legislature within 20 days, virtually ensuring that its S&T-related initiatives will be approved and implemented.

The Budget proposes the elimination of the provincial deficit by FY17-18, maintains Ontario's business support programs and reduces tuition fee reductions for post-secondary education for high-achieving students who cannot afford it.

Its S&T provisions represent a balanced approach to support for basic and applied research, with specific initiatives aimed at bridging financing gaps for innovative firms and procurement funding for the life science and health care technologies industries. Also included is a key $5-million investment to establish a Trillium Advanced Manufacturing Network at Western Univ's Ivey Business School.

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