Editorial - 14-12

Paul Martin's remarkable challenge to the science and technology community comes at a volatile time in Canada's evolution towards a knowledge-based economy. With the accelerating pace of technological change and the deep structural shifts in global markets, it takes powerful foresight to recognize which levers to pull to obtain the desired results.

Martin believes he knows which aspects of the New Economy must change to ensure Canada plays a leading role in the global marketplace. By focusing on e-commerce, R&D, venture capital and education, he contends that Canada can indeed be a leader.

But can Canada crank up its R&D output to $47.5 billion in 10 years? Will the traditional players in the financial markets be willing to adopt high-risk investment strategies? Can the necessary federal-provincial cooperation be achieved to move Canadian students up the rankings for math and science scores?

These questions will require considerable work and analysis before any workable strategy can be put in place. Then again, the intent of Martin's address was to get Canadians thinking precisely along these lines. And on that front, it must be considered a success.

Right now, the goals put forward by Finance minister Paul Martin in his New Economy address are just numbers on a piece of paper. The targets are aggressive and many are questioning their validity. But the vision he wrapped them in are a clarion call to all players in the emerging knowledge-based economy from the national top economic strategist.

Mark Henderson, Managing Editor