A lesson for Ottawa, Oct. 4

As Minister of Science, I am aware of the call for increased funding for basic research in Canada. I also know that Canadian researchers suffered deep cuts under the Harper Conservatives.

While there are no quick fixes to the damage science incurred under the previous government, we are doing our best to put science back on track.

Our two federal budgets saw billions of dollars invested in science and innovation programs. Part of that funding included the largest annual increase for our granting councils in over a decade. It also included $2 billion for new and renewed research, and learning spaces on campuses across the country.

We understand that scientists must be free to ask bold questions and produce evidence we then use to make decisions about our future.

I will continue to make every effort to support our scientists and to strengthen the culture of science in Canada so that it yields discoveries, opportunities and new ideas for years to come.

Kirsty Duncan Minister of Science