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The New Brunswick Institute for Research, Data and Training represents a partnership between the provincial government and The University of New Brunswick that will allow researchers across the province to have access to data from departments to help them identify trends and analyze policies. It is intended that their research will result in more effective government decision-making.   

“Our government has a diversified plan for creating jobs that focuses on seizing all opportunities for economic growth,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “We are pleased to be investing in the Institute for Research, Data and Training as part of this plan to highlight our commitment to adopting new innovations and supporting technological advancements that will help us create jobs and deliver world-class health care, seniors care and education.”

The government has committed to being smart and focused in its efforts to reduce government spending. This project will aid in this by supporting smarter, more cost-effective policy development.

“There is no doubt this institute will strengthen the province by leading to better solutions for social and economic issues,” said UNB President, Eddy Campbell. “This is a perfect example of how UNB is driving innovative approaches to making New Brunswick a better place to live and to work. I am so proud of the truly world-class team at UNB who have brought this to life, and thankful to the provincial government for recognizing the importance of investing in innovation.”

The institute will provide the physical and database infrastructure necessary to conduct population research on health and wellness, education and training, economic development, crime and demography.

It will also play an important part in the government’s plan to harness the power of big data and contribute to its open government/open data initiative, while guaranteeing that the right to privacy and the protection of personal information is maintained.

Administrative data will be available to researchers in a secure, controlled environment which protects the privacy of personal information. The research will inform the development of evidence-based public policy and represents an integral part of the research infrastructure for the province.

“One of the key goals of the institute is to conduct policy-relevant research to support informed and effective government decision-making,” said Ted McDonald, UNB professor of economics and institute director. “The institute has created another opportunity for UNB to be an integral part of the province’s research infrastructure. The institute anchors funding that has brought nine full-time and part-time jobs to UNB as well as further positions in Moncton and Saint John. The institute is an important piece of the close, ongoing relationship between government and academia that will ultimately lead to better-informed government decision-making and a better province for residents.”

The launch comes during Innovation Week, a week dedicated to giving companies the opportunity to meet with government officials and pitch their ideas for innovation in government. The government received more than 100 ideas from more than 80 companies through the Innovation Week portal. 

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