OTTAWA - On Friday, Gary Goodyear marked the beginning of National Science and Technology Week by saying he "would like to wish all Canadians, particularly children and young adults, an enjoyable and memorable time during National Science and Technology Week. I am honoured that Canadian astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk will officially launch the week from the International Space Station, where he has lived and worked for the past several months."

He stated that diverse events are set to take place across Canada between October 16 and 25, encouraging young people to learn about and be inspired by science and the work of this country's many researchers.

Federal spending on science and technology has increased every year since 2006. In fact, our government is now investing more in science and technology than ever before - with science and technology spending expected to reach $10.7 billion in the fiscal year 2009-2010.