News Release
This National Volunteer Week, the CCA would like to take the opportunity to thank the over 1,000 dedicated expert volunteers who have made contributions to the important work of the CCA as expert panelists, peer reviewers, and members of our Board of Governors, and Scientific Advisory Committee. Their commitment of knowledge, expertise, leadership, and time in support of evidence-based decision-making, is vital to the work of the CCA. We simply could not do our work without them.
The reports launched by the CCA this year ― from the risks of marine shipping to strengths in regenerative medicine to subnational science policy ― were characteristically diverse. We also received a record-breaking eight assessment referrals, on a wide range of topics: integrated natural resource management, learning experiences offered by business schools, and the transportation needs of an aging population, to name just a few. Notably, on December 13, 2016, the CCA also agreed to take on a new assessment from the Ministers of Health and Justice that promises to be one of our most important and challenging to date: Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). It will be unlike any other project we have undertaken by far ― unique in its size and scope and in its relevance to Canadians. We are honoured that the government turned to us to review this critically important and timely issue.
As an independent, not-for-profit organization, we have built our reputation over the past 11 years on our ability to convene the best experts in their respective fields to assess the evidence on complex topics of public interest. Our rigorous process ensures quality and objectivity. The success of our reports is due, in large part, to the support of our Member Academies ― the Royal Society of Canada, the Canadian Academy of Engineering, and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences ― and their Fellows, including many of our expert volunteers. Members of our Board of Governors and Scientific Advisory Committee also provide valuable oversight, and strategic thinking critical to the good governance of the CCA. Collectively, their invaluable contributions and commitment have helped shape the CCA into the well-respected organization it is today. We are confident that their combined knowledge and skills will only enhance the CCA’s success in the years to come.