David
SHEARER
Labour Leader
16 April 2012 MEDIA STATEMENT
Investment in science and innovation will transform our economy

Investing in science and research is the way to create innovative industries that lead to higher productivity and higher earnings for New Zealanders and the country as a whole, says Labour Leader David Shearer.

In a speech to the NZ Association of Scientists, David Shearer said that National has made decisions that have set science backwards. Those decisions include axing research and development tax credits, cutting post-doctoral fellowships and wasting time and money on science sector restructuring.

“Two-thirds of OECD countries offer R&D incentives. We no longer do. We’re not even in the game.

“Hundreds of leading Kiwi scientists depended on fellowships to carry out their research. In 2010, the Government axed them. That gutted our ability to keep our best and brightest here in New Zealand.

“And the latest idea from the Government is about moving offices not moving forward. We’ve wasted years turning the science sector upside down yet no-one can show us how the reshuffle will help promote science.

“I believe in the power of science to transform our economy. I believe in the power of ideas, knowledge and research to improve the lives and wellbeing of New Zealanders. And I believe it takes leadership to unleash our science and to create a clever economy.

“Our economic viability is linked directly to our ability to produce new and innovative products and solutions. That type of economy will generate better jobs with higher incomes to keep our young and talented people in New Zealand.”

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