The following statement was issued today by Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise in the House today to inform honourable members about an international scientific conference that will be held in our province next month.

From June 7-12, St. John�s will host the 7th International Marine Biotechnology Conference,
the only international conference to focus specifically on marine biotechnology.

The first of these international conferences was held in Tokyo in 1989, and successive conferences were held in the United States, Norway, Italy and Australia. This will be the first time the event has been held in Canada.

This conference is expected to attract over 500 delegates from 35 countries. Most of the delegates will be leading marine biotechnology scientists who will present and discuss recent advances in their field.

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development is a major sponsor of this conference. Newfoundland and Labrador has a young and growing biotechnology industry and this event will allow for the exchange of information and the building of relationships between our scientists and business people, and experts from around the world. The event will also provide an opportunity for companies to learn about new markets, to establish partnerships, and to develop technology transfer opportunities.

It is my belief that events such as this will result in the sharing of ideas and the identification of opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador.

2005 05 18                          2:15 p.m.