Provincial government releases discussion paper on innovation strategy

Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, released a discussion paper today and announced a consultation process designed to solicit input into the development of an innovation strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador.

"In our Blueprint, we committed to developing an innovation strategy for the province, as we see this as a key growth area for Newfoundland and Labrador," said Premier Williams. "The release of this discussion paper and the launch of a consultation process are substantial milestones toward the development of a comprehensive innovation strategy. It is an important step towards infusing innovative practices and products into our economy and creating a culture of innovation in the province. This initiative will assist us in capitalizing on opportunities to diversify our economy and enhance employment opportunities."

"The discussion paper explores why an innovation agenda is important to Newfoundland and Labrador and how the province will move forward with preparing its innovation strategy," said Minister Dunderdale. "The feedback we receive through the consultations will be vital to the preparation and implementation of the strategy."

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development has contracted AMEC Earth and Environmental to assist the department in developing the innovation strategy. AMEC will hold five formal roundtable discussions next month in Clarenville, Corner Brook, Gander, Happy Valley - Goose Bay and St. John�s.

Individuals interested in providing input can also do so by sending government or AMEC a hard copy submission or by submitting one electronically. To make a submission, please call AMEC�S Innovation Team at (709) 722-7023 or fax (709) 722-7353 or email innovation.nl@amec.com. Additional copies of the discussion paper can be obtained through the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development�s website at www.gov.nl.ca/intrd, or by contacting your local Innovation, Trade and Rural Development office for details.

Media contact:
   Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960 or (709) 690-5500
   Lynn Evans, Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, (709)729-4570 or (709) 690-6290

2005 02 01                         12:00 p.m.