725 NZ scientists sign Open Letter to Minister

Thursday, 28 October 2004, 2:54 pm
Press Release: Public Service Association

28 October 2004

More than 700 scientists have signed an open letter to the Minister of Science, Research and Technology expressing concern that New Zealand's core research capability is being jeopardised by current research structures and funding strategies.

The open letter was independently written by a group of concerned scientists and was hosted on the PSA website for the benefit of the New Zealand scientific community between November 2003 and June 2004.

The open letter was presented to the Science, Research and Technology Minister Pete Hodgson yesterday by a delegation of authors and high-profile signatories. The Minister indicated his willingness to look at the issues raised, and will meet with the delegation again in the near future to continue the discussion.

The open letter, list of signatories, their comments, and authors’ conclusions are available at www.psa.org.nz/science.asp

ENDS

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