I think you've hit the issue right on the head.
My point is that it's not one or the other. It's actually finding the balance between the two. We do support basic research and we have always supported basic research. I see no reason not to continue to do that. But when it comes to basic or applied funding, I think it is really more important to look at the bigger picture of science in general and determine, first of all, what investments are most important for Canada, for Canadians at this particular time, not only in the economy but in terms of our social needs and our economic needs, of course. For me, it's not one or the other. It is about finding the balance and continuing to support both.
Perhaps I'll read another quote here. Gilles Patry, the president of the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, recently stated:
All research whether it is applied or yet to be applied is at the service of society. Since no one can predict where the next economic social or environmental breakthrough will come from, it is vital that the full spectrum of research be supported. This is the established policy of the Government of Canada and we encourage you to continue.
We will, because I totally agree with that.