Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement after Canadian scientist Arthur B. McDonald was named as co-winner of this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics:

“On behalf of all Canadians, I congratulate Arthur B. McDonald on co-winning this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics, sharing the prestigious international honour with Japanese scientist Takaaki Kajita.

“Dr. McDonald’s award solidifies Canada’s reputation of having some of the best and brightest scientists and many of the most respected universities and research facilities in the world as he becomes the second Canadian to win this significant honour.

“I am certain that Dr. McDonald’s extraordinary accomplishment will further inspire our scientific community and I hope that it will encourage young Canadians who may be considering science as a career choice across the country.”