The state of science in Canada

Democracy Watch requested that the Information Commissioner of Canada investigate "the federal government’s policies and actions to obstruct the right of the public and the media to speak to government scientists." In response to this request a 128 page report was released detailing some interesting government policies and showing just how active a role government takes in controlling what scientists and experts are able to say to the media and public via the Media Relations Headquarters. One case that is stated as an example shows how Canadian scientists attending the International Polar Year 2012 conference were given explicit instructions as to how they ought to respond to requests for interviews - basically, run it by the Media Relations Headquarters. Also:

Media Relations employees were sent to the conference to shadow Canadian

government scientists during interviews. The employees were tasked with monitoring and recording scientist interactions with the press. Although the government scientists were unwilling to speak on record about the Media Relations

staff sent to monitor them, one researcher told a CBC reporter that the strict communications measures were an embarrassment to Canada.

I think this is a sad state of affairs, but it is hardly surprising. The evidence is piling up and it seems that Harper is someone who desperately wants to control every word that comes out of any government employees mouth to ensure it doesn't contradict the approved message and narrative.