Mr. Speaker, this week is Information Technology Week. The Canadian Alliance encourages Canadians to participate in activities across the country in order to learn about new and existing technologies. From an industrial point of view there is a strong connection between innovation, technology and economic growth. We must continue to make prudent investments in research and development in Canada in order to encourage growth in the information technology sector and in science industries in general.
The industry committee recently made recommendations to lift foreign ownership restrictions applicable to telecommunications carriers. This recommendation is just one step that can immediately be taken to boost investment in technology as the telecommunications sector has long been a leader in cutting edge technology.
The Canadian Alliance applauds the continued good work of this sector in Canada. It is our hope that the government can find the courage to make changes to foreign investment rules, as well as to taxation and R and D policies in order to keep the information technology sector healthy in Canada.