Canadian Science Minister's Beliefs On Evolution Create Controversy

In Canada, Minister of State for Science and Technology, Gary Goodyear, has created a good deal of controversy by refusing to answer a question about whether he believes in evolution. According to a Toronto Globe & Mail report yesterday, Goodyear responded to a reporter's question about his beliefs by saying: "I'm not going to answer that question. I am a Christian, and I don't think anybody asking a question about my religion is appropriate." However, in a subsequent TV appearance, Goodyear when asked whether he believes in evolution, responded: "Of course I do. But it is an irrelevant question.” (Toronto Globe & Mail). A budget crunch in Canada has led to cutting of science funding. Goodyear and the government have been criticized for neglecting basic research and directing resources instead towards applied research in areas such as the automotive and forestry industries. CBC News reports on the reactions from various scientists and medical personnel.