Timing of Innovation Agenda uncertain as Tobin and Normand push to stay on track

The launch of the Innovation Paper is still a moving target, although it’s now clear that the planned consultation phase is likely to stretch well into next year. Industry minister Brian Tobin and secretary of state for Science, Research & Development Dr Gilbert Normand are actively lobbying their Cabinet colleagues to forge ahead with the release of the document. They made their case last week before the Cabinet Committee for Economic Union, but initial indications do not support any new spending measures until 2003.

Normand expressed his support for a prompt release of the Innovation Paper, stating last week that “we must start right now” to begin developing the vision and strategy required to implement the 10-year plan.

He was speaking at the annual symposium of the Partnership Group for Science and Engineering, and he confirmed in an interview with RE$EARCH MONEY that he would oppose any further delays despite the economic downturn and the prospect of Canada’s participation in a long, military conflict.

“This is the moment to continue and push more,” said Normand. “We must continue to invest and continue to put in more money… I think the (innovation) paper will be released before Christmas.”

Normand added that the recommendation to create a Canadian Academies of Science would also be part of the Innovation Paper.

The extended consultation phase stems from pressure from many sectors to have the opportunity to provide input, as well as the agreement between the federal and provincial governments to consult before introducing any new program requiring matching provincial funds (R$, October 10/01).

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