Harper Government Supports Natural Resource Sectors Through Innovation in Genomics

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - May 20, 2015) - Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced $714,700 in funding to Genome British Columbia for their project that will demonstrate the benefits of genomics in addressing challenges faced by companies in the natural resource sectors.

With funding from the Government of Canada, Genome British Columbia will demonstrate the value of genomics technology. Genome British Columbia will facilitate the development of tools that will help sector-based companies have access to the most appropriate technology for their needs, and will also provide guidance for successful implementation.

Genomics has several applications across the natural resource sectors. This project will lead to concrete examples of how these applications could work in settings outside of the laboratory. By demonstrating genomic technologies in industry environments, Genome British Columbia will promote their benefits with the goal of increasing integration across all areas of the natural resource sectors.

Quick Facts

• Genomics is a science that aims to decipher and understand the entire genetic information of an organism.
• Genomic technology can be used in a number of ways, such as certifying the status of agricultural, forest or aquaculture products (for example, helping demonstrate that a wood product is pest-free), and developing crops, trees, and aquaculture strains better suited to growing conditions.

Quotes

"Research and innovation are crucial to Canada's economic success. Thanks to our Government's funding, Genome British Columbia will provide the tools that our natural resource sectors can use to remain strong and competitive, thereby creating jobs and promoting prosperity."

- The Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification

"Western Economic Diversification's support enables Genome British Columbia to continue to partner with industry to advance the development of biological solutions to current sector challenges across mining, forestry, energy, fisheries and aquaculture, and environment. The more we can do to propel industry advancements while mitigating environmental impacts, the more Canada and its citizens will benefit."

- Dr. Tony Brooks, Chief Financial Officer and Vice President, Research Programs

Additional Links

- Harper Government Invests in Jobs and Growth through Science and Technology: http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/77_13180.asp

- Innovation Opportunities in Western Canada: http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/107.asp

- Genome British Columbia: www.genomebc.ca

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