Task force report recommends creation of international centre for infectious diseases in Winnipeg

Winnipeg, MN – February 2, 2004 – A report by a joint federal-Manitoba task force for studying an international centre for infectious diseases task force has released its recommendations for expanding the province’s life sciences and infectious diseases sector.

The report, entitled “Fighting Disease – Fostering Innovation”, recommends the creation of new institutions and an organization to help commercialize the infectious diseases research from government laboratories. It also proposes a new development area — BioMed City — in Winnipeg to coordinate the work of governments, academic institutions and life sciences companies.

"Manitoba is committed to strengthening its leadership role in life sciences innovation and our world class infectious disease institutions are already taking their place centre stage," says Gary Doer, Manitoba’s premier. "As the country examines the need for a critical centre for infectious disease analysis, research and training, this report reinforces Manitoba’s position as a world-class research and innovation centre."

"The government of Canada is committed to building a modern, 21st-century economy through support of science and technology, globalization opportunities and sustainable economic growth," says Reg Alcock, senior federal minister in Manitoba. "This report is a blueprint for possible next steps towards accomplishing our goal."

For a next step, the report recommends the creation of a tripartite agreement between the federal, Manitoba and Winnipeg governments to establish contribution levels as well as to develop a business plan for making the centre a reality.