Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate the International Development Research Centre, better known as IDRC, on 25 years of service to Canada and the world since its inception on May 13, 1970.
The purpose of IDRC is to bring together research professionals from Canada and abroad to help solve the problems of developing economies. As a primary example, IDRC-sponsored scientific research has led to the development of disease-resistant and pest-resistant food crops. Consequently, the environmental impact caused by pesticides and fungicides is greatly reduced and developing economies are one step further toward food self-sufficiency.
In short, 25 years' worth of Canadian investment into the IDRC will pay dividends into the next millennium. I cannot think of a better gift to future generations.
Happy birthday, IDRC, and congratulations to past and present staffs serving at national headquarters and the seven regional offices in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.