On February 2, 2015, Cooke Lab students Jacqueline Chapman and Melissa Dick accompanied Dr. Sara Iverson to represent the Ocean Tracking Network on Parliament Hill at an NSERC Science Kiosk. The theme of the event was “The Blue Economy: Ocean Science Research in Canada.” A number of leading scientists from universities across Canada were present. The areas of tidal energy, ocean ecology, marine biodiversity, effects of climate change on marine life, aquaculture, and the tracking and monitoring of aquatic species were well represented. Researchers had the opportunity to inform parliamentarians about the current research in Canada and to share scientific information with key decision makers about the research being funded in all aspects of ocean science research.
Senator Kelvin K. Ogilivie hosted the event and many Members of Parliament and from the Senate of Canada attended. Minister of State for Science and Technology Ed Holder and NSERC President Dr. Mario Pino were also in attendance and addressed the participants.
