Dialogue

ISSUE 9

May 2005

Canadian Language and Literacy Research Network receives renewal funding through 2008


					An investment of up to $55,050,000 over three years to extend the research activities of four Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE), including The Canadian Language and Literacy Research Network, was announced in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia on March 31, 2005. The announcement was made by the Honourable Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the NCE.

"Networks of Centres of Excellence help to secure a vibrant and productive society for all Canadians," said Minister Regan. "The Networks' research brings benefits to communities across the country, from ensuring our children get the best possible start in life, to providing access to safe drinking water, to promoting high quality jobs in key economic sectors such as the automotive industry."

The four networks are AUTO21, Canadian Language and Literacy Research Network, Canadian Water Network, and Stem Cell Network.

"These networks have demonstrated their ability to conduct research and produce tangible results on issues that are important to all Canadians," said Minister Emerson. "Investing in knowledge, groundbreaking ideas, and a skilled workforce is central to the federal government's strategy to advance the country's economic performance and the well-being of Canadians."

"Networks of Centres of Excellence call on the talent and leadership of researchers in Halifax and in other communities across the country to help ensure that Canadians have the skills and opportunities to succeed in the knowledge economy," said Michael Savage, MP for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour.

The funds are awarded following an in-depth review of each network's research plans and priorities, knowledge transfer activities, training activities, and scientific accomplishments. This review is required at the mid-point of the seven-year funding cycle to demonstrate that each network continues to meet the NCE program's evaluation criteria and add value to its field of activity.

"We are pleased to see the networks continue to deliver high-quality research and partnerships, and contribute to the development of the Canadian economy and society," said Dr. Tom Brzustowski, President of Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Chair of the NCE Steering Committee. "With its focus on excellence and collaboration, the Networks of Centres of Excellence program bridges disciplines, institutions and sectors to undertake projects in areas that meet the needs of Canadians."

Networks of Centres of Excellence are unique partnerships among universities, industry, government and not-for-profit organizations aimed at turning Canadian research and entrepreneurial talent into economic and social benefits for all Canadians. An integral part of the federal government's commitment to promoting innovation, these nation-wide, multidisciplinary and multisectorial research partnerships connect excellent research with industrial know-how and strategic investment.

The NCE program is managed jointly by the three federal granting agencies, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada ,in partnership with Industry Canada.