FREDERICTON (CNB) – A network is being established to improve collaboration between the provincial government and researchers specializing in the development of socio-economic policy.

The New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network is being established with support from the provincial government, New Brunswick’s four public universities and other stakeholders.

The announcement was made today by Social Development Minister Kelly Lamrock and Andy Scott, executive director of the network and the Andrews senior fellow in social policy at the University of New Brunswick. They were joined by representatives from each of the  universities.

"There is vast knowledge outside of government that can and should be tapped into when creating social policy," said Lamrock. "Research institutes and universities are in the business of conducting research. It makes sense to use their expertise to the benefit of all New Brunswickers by applying this evidence-based research to provincial challenges."

The network identifies opportunities for the provincial government to collaborate with researchers examining socio-economic policy development. It will help politicians, public servants, municipal officials, non-government organizations, community leaders and residents to connect with researchers and experts.

The goals of the network include cataloguing social policy research and creating an easily accessible New Brunswick database for use by public, researchers and other interested parties.

The provincial government is investing $200,000. Additional funding is being contributed by the University of New Brunswick, the Université de Moncton, Mount Allison University, St. Thomas University and a number of non-profit organizations and public agencies.  

"The strategy of the network is to ensure the sharing of knowledge between those who do research and those who require research for the purpose of policy-making, bridging the gap between those making decisions, those conducting research, and citizens," said Scott. "I am pleased that the New Brunswick government is supporting this worthwhile effort."

24-08-10