WIKIMEDIA, PEREGRINE981In what many are hailing as a move to restore science in Canada, the nation’s newly elected Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, created several cabinet posts last week (November 4), including a Science Minister and a Minister of Industry, Science, and Economic Development. He also did away with the bureaucratic hurdles scientists previously faced when attempting to speak with members of the media.
“Our government values science and will treat scientists with respect,” newly appointed Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains said in a statement. “That is why government scientists and experts will be able to speak freely about their work to the media and the public.”
David Prince, director at the Canadian Hydrographic Service, told The Toronto Star that old policies enacted under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper that restricted scientists’ communications were frustrating. “Scientists look forward to talking about their science, so [Trudeau’s policy change] was welcome,” he said.
“After almost a decade of decreasing access to government ministers and those who work for their departments, it’s a remarkable thing for journalists to contemplate once again getting comments from people who make important ...
