The points in my previous report [a 2003 study identifying threats to the domestic manufacturing base] have become more urgent in the three years since I wrote it. There are few indicators that would disabuse me of the positions I took then.

The manufacturing sector ended the year with some decent momentum that should carry it through the first part of the year.

If the innovation process goes offshore, America will lose much of its capacity to generate wealth, and a decline in long-term economic growth is assured. The rapid growth in overseas manufacturing is creating new global centers with the critical mass necessary to build their own innovation machines.

The study was to be as complete and free of 'recovery bias' as possible.

The conclusion of the study was that it works just as well if not better in adolescents and adults,

In Ontario, job losses in manufacturing have accelerated in recent months alongside announced layoffs in the key auto sector. However, Ontario's economy is well diversified and strength in the service sector, which accounts for more than 70% of overall employment and economic activity, should support vehicle sales of about 590,000 units in 2006 - in line with the average of the past two years.