I take great pleasure in congratulating tonight's award recipients at the Celebration of Excellence in Canadian Health Research. Each has individually made a key contribution to advancing our knowledge. Collectively, they are prime examples of the depth of Canada's health research expertise.
The role of health research in protecting and promoting public health is critical. Whether it is dealing with emerging
outbreaks of disease like SARS, or with chronic conditions such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, health research helps us to understand the problem and propose solutions that work. In this role, health research will be central to the success of the new Public Health Agency of Canada.
Canada's health researchers are known throughout the world for their achievements. I look forward to continued contributions to the health of Canadians from CIHR and from the researchers it supports.
Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P., M.D.
Minister of State (Public Health)
