(Saskatoon – September 28, 2015) Leading up to the October 19 federal election, scientists and researchers are meeting across Canada to discuss the need to address the crisis of research and science policy and funding in Canada.

The University of Saskatchewan Faculty Association (USFA) is hosting two discussion events in Saskatoon:
Louis’ Loft (on campus): September 29, 3:00-6:00 pm
Station 20 West (Multi-purpose Room): October 2, 3:00-5:00 pm

“The choices of federal governments about research and science policy and funding are an election issue that impacts us not just as researchers, but as Canadians,” said USFA Chair, Larry Stewart. Federal departments have been closing research centres and libraries, underfunding discovery-driven research and requiring industry collaboration, and limiting media and public access to scientists and scientific information. These choices negatively impact future research and discovery, and potentially jeopardize the health and safety of Canadians.

The Saskatoon events are part of a national campaign spearheaded by the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) to highlight the repercussions of the federal government’s approach to research. The Get Science Right campaign proposes steps to support science and research of all disciplines in the public interest, and encourages Canadians to take action to protect research integrity. “Over the last decade, the public has lost access to key data and research findings, Canadian investment in R&D has lagged behind other countries, and ideology instead of evidence is driving policy,” said Robin Vose, President of CAUT and professor at St. Thomas University.

“The USFA is not endorsing any candidate or party, but we know our members are a part of the Canadian populace that exercises its right to vote,” says Stewart adding “There needs to be a candid discussion about party and candidate positions on research policy and funding, and thorough consideration needs to be given to this topic when it comes to making choices on election day.”

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 For more information visit:
itsaboutchoice.ca
getscienceright.ca
trunorthsmartandfree.ca

Contact: Allison Muri, USFA Communications Committee Chair
Email: allison.muri@usask.ca
Phone: 306-966-5609