Report released on life science consultations 

Acting minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Gerald Smith, today released the report titled Towards A Life Science Economy: Opportunities and Challenges for Newfoundland and Labrador which highlights the results of recent province-wide community consultations. The consultations were held to seek stakeholder input regarding the advancement of the life science economy and to help develop a strategic plan for life sciences in this province. 

Minister Smith said the report will be incorporated into the Federal Action Plan on Life Science Economy, adding that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has placed a high priority on further developing life sciences in our country and making Canada a world leader by 2010. 

The life science economy is based on new and alternative products and services derived from biological materials, such as native shrubs and plants, and wild berries. These bio-products include medical, health and food products, as well as energy sources.

Over 100 stakeholders attended the consultations which were held during September in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Corner Brook, Gander and St. John's. Those attending represented a wide range of disciplines including the agrifoods and fishery industries, biotechnology sector, academia, regional economic development boards as well as other interested groups and individuals.

Minister Smith said the consultations, which were also held recently in other provinces, were extremely successful in generating a variety of views from participants, adding that both the challenges and potential opportunities regarding the life sciences economy were identified. 

He added, "Based upon the consultations, there was indeed a clear message that our province's natural advantages, such as our geographic location, pristine environment and natural resources, provide us with a unique opportunity to enhance life science development. An example of the potential that exists here is seen through the development of health products from components that are extracted from our native blueberries and other plants."

Minister Smith said it was agreed at the consultations that a strategic planning committee be formed to assist with the development of a life science strategy for the province. "This committee will work in consultation with my agrifoods staff to draft a strategic plan for our province, keeping in mind that any potential growth in the life science economy must be industry driven."

The strategic plan is expected to be completed in late 2002.

Copies of the report are available on the department Web site at:
www.gov.nl.ca//www.gov.nl.ca/agric/consultationReports.htm or by calling the Agrifoods Branch at (709) 729-3787.

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2001 12 13                                 11:25 a.m.