Canadians see benefits of biotech.
At the launch of the fourth annual National Biotechnology Week
(NBW) September 20, 2007 in Winnipeg, MB, BIOTECanada released the
results of its third annual poll of Canadians' understanding of
biotech. Results indicate the majority of Canadians support the use of
products and processes that involve biotechnology.
"Beer, cold water detergent, door frames, and pajamas all have
something in common--biotechnology. Biotech truly is an everywhere
technology," said Peter Brenders, president and CEO of BIOTECanada.
"Our polling data indicates over 80 percent of Canadians support
the use of products and processes that involve biotechnology."
The theme of the NBW launch emphasized that everyday items are
biotech products and hold the potential to benefit almost every aspect
of our lives from our health, to the food we eat, and how we travel.
"Winnipeg is proud to host the launch of this truly national
celebration of Canadian innovation," said Dawson Reimer, chair of
the newly rebranded Life Science Association of Manitoba.
Public support of the technology was also evidenced by an increase
in funding to the sector announced at the launch by The Honourable Jim
Rondeau, Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mines. According to
respondents, the role government can play includes that of access.
"Canadians see an opportunity for governments to make sure
Canadians have access to treatments for rare diseases and illnesses, as
well as to provide tax incentives to encourage innovation in
Canada," said Brenders. The complete results of the poll are
available at the official NBW Web site www.imagenenation.ca.
BIOTECanada
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