Federal funding and university science: lessons learned from lobbying government
Dr. Murphy's presentation was followed by breakout discussion groups on the topic of research funding. Dr. Charles Hollenberg met with one co-chair from each breakout discussion group and summarized the collective views to the general meeting. The group reached a overwhelming consensus on the following:
- It is imperative to ensure an increase in the research budgets of granting agencies (i.e., MRC, NSERC, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, National Health Research and Development Program). Achievement of this goal requires persistent and organized efforts to educate, advise and influence the governments and the general public continually. In other words, this must be a continuing activity with long-term goals -- not simply a reaction to budgetary crises.
- Lobbying should be focused at the national level, through a central committee, to provide a centralized and coordinated effort. There is a need for professional help to organize a successful lobbying campaign. Rank-and-file scientists want to help, but have neither the time nor the talent. The Council for Health Research in Canada (CHRC) could help organize such a campaign. Although a national strategy is required, lobbying efforts at the individual, local level are still an important factor for success. It is especially important for professional societies, such as the Canadian Society for Clinician Investigators and the Canadian Federation of Biological Sciences, to organize their constituencies into effective lobbying groups -- working separately but in cooperation with a central committee, such as the CHRC.
- There is a need to mobilize health industry and business leaders as well. Business can provide motivation and funds. Industry can inform the government of the impact of university research on the biotechnology industry. Canadian biotechnology initiatives are on the increase, which represents tangible evidence that Canadian research and development can lead to the creation of new wealth in the country.
- It is useful to bring scientists into government policy-making roles and vice versa. Administrative sabbatical leaves should be permitted for this purpose.
- The provincial ministries of health should be targeted as prime candidates for further education about clinician scientist training and career development. This is especially relevant given the increasingly important and expanding provincial role in health care.
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| CIM: August 1997
/ MCE : août 1997 |
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