THUNDER BAY, ON - February 27, 2009 - KENORA:  As part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Conservative government will significantly expand graduate program scholarships, helping to deliver a more robust, competitive Canadian economy.

Education has played an important role in Greg’s life, he completed his Masters of Business Administration at the University of Laval (Quebec City) and Law School at McGill University (Montreal). Greg understands that graduate studies can be costly but also knows firsthand of the importance and value of them. He is pleased that the government is investing in education through both scholarships and investments in Universities.

“Our government is investing in business, science and technology to create jobs, improve the quality of life for Canadians and strengthen the economy for future generations,” said MP Rickford. “These additional scholarships will help our universities develop the best researchers in the world and keep Canadian talent here at home.”

The Conservative government is providing $87.5 million to the granting councils over three years starting in 2009-10, and will create an additional 500 doctoral scholarships and 1000 master's scholarships per year. As part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Conservative government is providing an additional investment of over $5.1 billion toward science and technology initiatives, including the $87.5 million for the Canada Graduate Scholarships program. The funding will help more of the country’s top graduate students to deepen their skills through further study in support of a more innovative economy. Part of the funding will also be directed towards business degrees to help Canadian businesses stay competitive on the world stage.

The Canada Graduate Scholarships program is a shared initiative of three granting councils. Of the $87.5 million, $35 million will be allocated to Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, $35 million to Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and $17.5 million to Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.