After a long (for Canadians) 78 day election we finally have a new leader, Justin Trudeau of the Liberal Party. Personally, I am very happy about this because it means that scientists can now speak freely about their work, and that their analyses will be considered when the government makes decisions.
Reference: Pitt Meadows Today
Not only did he appoint a new minister, Trudeau also dissolved Harper’s Conservative Party’s restricted communication enforced onto scientists, limiting them in what they could talk about with the media in a highly regulated sense. Navdeep Bains, the newly appointed Minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development has a clear stance on scientists being able to communicate freely with the media, public, and government about their work and the results obtained. As well, Trudeau created the post of Minister of Science, which he appointed Kirsty Duncan a medical geographer at the University of Toronto. Furthermore, Trudeau also looks to name a chief Science Advisor next, and with all of these positions being filled by adequate persons, it looks as though Canada will be able to speak freely about science again. As many believe this will be the “restoration of science” in Canada.
Below: Kirsty Duncan becoming the Minister of Science.
Reference: sah news
Finally, the scientists of Canada, whether up-incoming or already established, do not have to be hesitant in pursuing a scientific career affiliated with the Canadian government. As under this new leadership we, the scientists of Canada, will not be limited into how we communicate our research with the media and general public. Allowing for us to communicate freely about the scientific studies performed, therefore, better educating the public of Canada in the issues the science may try and combat.
Reference: The National Post
By: Mathew Golf
Commented on:
Luxi Xu – “Work-life Balance”
Brian Cheng – “Newly discovered hormone can possibly change the future of weight loss?”
Ivan Lan – “On Wasps and Matricide”
One response to “Free Speech for Science in Canada!”