Mr. Speaker, the member was not here when we presented probably the biggest budget in knowledge and in the knowledge-based economy that this country has ever seen. It was called “the knowledge advantage”. Our investments were in research and science, and we continue that. Regarding the stimulus package, after we had consultations from coast to coast, many stakeholders wanted to see us invest in universities.
The member talked about the investment per capita by the President of the United States. I wonder if she did the math, because I understand it is $21 billion, and we have exceeded that in our investments in science and technology. As well, how can she compare a country that has many more people than we do?
I wonder if she would like me to recite some of the quotes we have from the associations, universities and colleges, applauding us for what we have done for the graduate scholarships. Brock University said that the $5.1 billion investment in science and technology in 2009 will help further innovation and competitiveness. I would like the member to acknowledge that there has a been a long-term commitment by this government to science and technology specifically.