Pfizer Canada Inc., the Canadian operation of one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies, Pfizer Inc., has donated $50,000 in support of British Columbia's Year of Science.

Last fall, the government of B.C. proclaimed the 2010-11 school year the Year of Science. Its primary goal is to engage British Columbians in science, in particular young people, by showcasing how science works, who scientists are, the kind of work they do, and why science matters in our everyday lives and the communities we live in.

Pfizer Inc. is recognized worldwide for supporting community causes that help build healthier communities. Pfizer Canada partners with science communities, all levels of government, industry and patients to contribute to Canada's knowledge-based economy and the health of Canadians. A champion of Canada's science and research professionals, Pfizer has helped make Canada a leader in advanced research by giving Canada's brightest minds an opportunity to learn, grow and move forward in health research.

Quotes:

Dr. Moira Stilwell, Parliamentary Secretary for Industry, Research and Innovation to the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation -

"The Year of Science looks to leaders like Pfizer Canada and others to help in the goal to increase interest in science among young people. Through its own community events and website full of scientific resources, the Year of Science is inspiring B.C.'s youth to discover science in everyday life, hoping to transform childhood curiosity into careers that they love."

Paul Lévesque, president, Pfizer Canada Inc. -

"We're very proud to support the Year of Science, and applaud the province of British Columbia for its efforts to engage, educate and inspire our future generations about science. By creating an environment for our children to develop an interest and enthusiasm in exploring science and technology, we will reaffirm the importance of this sector for the economy of tomorrow."

Quick Facts:

* B.C.'s future depends on a new kind of literacy in science, technology, math and engineering. Predictions are that three-quarters of all future jobs in B.C. will need at least some kind of post-secondary education.

* Over the next 10 years, approximately one in every eight job openings will be in a science-related occupation.

Learn More:

About the Year of Science at: www.yearofsciencebc.ca

About Pfizer Canada Inc. at: www.pfizer.ca

Media Contacts:

Gordon Keast

Public Affairs Officer

Public Affairs Bureau

250 952-0132

Lisa Ross

Corporate Communications

Pfizer Canada Inc.

1 866 973-4937

Lisa.Ross@pfizer.com

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect