Minister of State Goodyear Welcomes State of the Nation 2012 Report

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - May 21, 2013) - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today received Canada's Science, Technology and Innovation System: Aspiring to Global Leadership, the third State of the Nation report from the Science, Technology and Innovation Council (STIC).

This biennial report charts Canada's science, technology and innovation performance over the last two years against global competitors on key indicators. These include business innovation, knowledge generation and transfer, and talent development and deployment.

"Our government wants to ensure Canada's place among the world's most innovative countries," said Minister of State Goodyear. "In assessing our country's performance, this report points to our successes and where we need to focus our attention in the future. I would like to thank the council members for their hard work. I look forward to reviewing the report closely."

Aspiring to Global Leadership puts a focus on the importance of science, technology and innovation and the need for all participants in the system to work together to enhance Canada's performance.

"Making sure we have a strong economy and are able to tackle science-based health, environmental and social issues are critical for Canada's future growth and well-being," said the Minister of State. "This report will provide our government with important insights as we continue to create high-value jobs and improve the quality of life of Canadians."

STIC was created in 2007 as a key component of the Government of Canada's science and technology strategy. The council is composed of 18 highly accomplished individuals from the business, research, education and government communities from across Canada. Its mandate is to provide ministers with evidence-based advice on science, technology and innovation policy issues.

A copy of Aspiring to Global Leadership, as well as a backgrounder on the report, can be downloaded from the STIC website (www.stic-csti.ca).