TORONTO, March 27 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada's Research-Based Pharmaceutical
Companies (Rx&D) is encouraged by initiatives in the Ontario Government's 2009
budget designed to fuel innovation and growth in Ontario's biopharmaceutical
and life sciences industry.
"The government of Ontario is sending a signal that it is serious about
improving and expanding Ontario's knowledge-based economy," says Rx&D
President Russell Williams. "The pharmaceutical sector is a powerful force for
innovation and has the potential to generate greater prosperity and create
high quality jobs in Ontario's life sciences sector."
Mr. Williams added: "The support in the budget for research
infrastructure, genomics, tax incentives for innovation and the increased
funding for the Ministry of Research and Innovation demonstrate that the
McGuinty Government is strengthening its commitment to make science and
innovation a priority."
"The budget sends a clear message that Ontario values the biomedical
sector and its potential for growth," said Mark Jones, President and CEO of
AstraZeneca Canada Inc. and Chair of Rx&D's Ontario Regional Committee. "We
are working together with the Ontario Government to set a course for the
future that will help us emerge from this economic uncertainty in a position
of strength."
The initiatives in this budget build on positive policies such as
Ontario's Innovation Agenda, the Next Generation of Jobs Fund and the
Biopharmaceutical Investment Program. Rx&D is pleased that the McGuinty
Government is continuing to invest in innovation and in health care, including
prevention, chronic disease management and early detection.
"We are looking forward to working with the government to improve timely
access for Ontarians to new treatments which improve and save lives," Mr.
Williams concluded. "We will work with all partners in government and the
community to improve the health and prosperity of Ontarians and Canadians."Key Facts on the Biopharmaceutical Industry in Ontario
- Employs over 9,000 Ontarians in high-value jobs, such as researchers
and scientists;
- Invested more than $550-million in Ontario in 2006 to enable the
discovery of life-saving therapies, such as antibiotics, new vaccines
and more effective cancer treatments;
- Makes up thirty-one of Canada's top 100 corporate Research and
Development investors.About Rx&D
Rx&D is an association of leading research-based biopharmaceutical
companies dedicated to improving the health of all Canadians through the
discovery and development of new medicines and vaccines. Our community
represents 20,000 men and women working for 50 member companies and invests
more than $1 billion in research and development each year to fuel Canada's
knowledge-based economy. Guided by our Code of Ethical Practices, our
membership is committed to working in partnership with governments, healthcare
professionals and stakeholders in a highly ethical manner.
For further information: François Lessard, Communications, (613)
236-0455, flessard@canadapharma.org
