Canadian scientists now free to speak with media

The muzzles are coming off for federal scientists.

For years, scientists who worked for the former Conservative government were silenced by strict rules that made them seek departmental approval before speaking to the press.

On Friday, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains said scientists are free to speak to the media about their work.

“Our government values science and will treat scientists with respect. That is why government scientists and experts will be able to speak freely about their work to the media and the public,” he said in a statement. “We are working to make government science fully available to the public and will ensure that scientific analyses are considered in decisionmaking.”

The change in policy is being communicated across departments and ministries in the new Liberal government.

On Thursday, scientists at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans were told they were free to talk to the media, said David Prince, director at the Canadian Hydrographic Service.

“Scientists look forward to talking about their science, so it was welcome,” he said.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made freeing scientists part of his larger campaign pledge to open up government to the public and improve relations with the civil service. On Wednesday, Trudeau sent top diplomats a letter telling them he would rely on their expertise.

“You are experienced, skilled professionals, and some of Canada’s best assets internationally. Under my leadership, you will have a government that believes in you and will support you in your work around the world,” the letter read.