That is a bit strange, since those same representatives published a report in 2007 where the SR&ED program was assessed. They said in their report that each dollar spent under this program had an economic impact of 11¢ per dollar. Today, they are saying that the change will not have an impact on the incentives. Some people are even saying that the SR&ED program is not working. So the statements are contradictory. I am not the one saying this, the Department of Finance is. It's on page 8 of their report.
On November 6th, 2012. See this statement in context.