As an example from the forest industry, the fibre from Canadian forests is very special, providing unique features to forest products. Competition from inferior fibre that through advanced technology can produce good quality, low cost products, is a threat to our traditional markets. Our future is dependent upon developing new technology that takes greater advantage of our fibre resource. This will allow us to produce products of high value that cannot be matched by other fibre sources. Knowledge is the key to achieving this.
Universities play the key role in developing people with knowledge.
They also play a key role in knowledge creation. But we must continue to develop the means to ensure effective application of knowledge. I am particularly proud that, for 75 years, Paprican has been very successful in providing effective linkage between industry and the relevant knowledge base in universities. In addition, I will refer to the federal government's National Centres of Excellence Program. Paprican has participated in the NCE program since its inception in 1990.