On Monday, February 9, 2026, the Standing Committee on Science and Research adopted the following motion:
It was agreed, — That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(3)(i), the Standing Committee on Science and Research undertake a study on the governance and accountability of federal science policy and institutions, particularly with respect to the management, evaluation, and transparency of data and funding decisions administered by the federal granting agencies, as well as by the full range of federal mechanisms supporting science, research, and innovation, including but not limited to the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canada First Research Excellence Fund, and the Canada Research Chairs Program, as well as any other federal program or fund that has an impact on the funding, direction, or governance of research and innovation.
That the committee hold a minimum of at least four meetings.
That, as part of this study, the committee examine the feasibility and relevance of establishing an independent body or function for the monitoring, analysis, and accountability of federal science policies, inspired by the principles of independence and accountability applicable to institutions such as the Office of the Auditor General of Canada, and taking into account international best practices in science governance and that the committee report its findings to the House and request a government response.
