An Open Letter to the 39th Parliament from Canada’s Research Community [published in The Hill Times]

Dear Parliamentarians,

In a changing world, Canada needs a strong research sector. Three steps by you can help our country meet the
challenges ahead.

One: Properly fund universities and colleges through the creation of a dedicated federal transfer to the provinces. Canada’s post-secondary institutions are cash-starved. Work with the provinces to solve this problem.

Two: Boost knowledge creation by increasing support for the basic research funded by the federal granting agencies
— the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council
and the Canadian Institutes for Health Research.

Three: Strengthen federal government research capability. From drug safety to climate change, Canadians need their
own independent, expert advice. If properly supported, government departments and agencies can provide it.

Canada has elected you to help build a better country. A stronger research sector is an important part of this. We wish you success in the session ahead.

Yours Sincerely,

Roland Andersson
Chair, CCR