Some members of Canada's scientific community are expressing concern that the Harper government is trying to muzzle scientists who get money from Ottawa.
A number of groups have used a major scientific conference in Vancouver to release an open letter to Prime Minister Harper.
It calls on Harper to quote -- "tear down the wall" that's been raised over the past four years separating scientists, journalists and the public.
The letter says federal scientists are not allowed to speak to reporters without the 'consent' of media relations officers."
It complains that reporters often face "unacceptable" delays or denials for interviews, prompting them to give up trying to talk to federal government scientists.
The letter suggests the muzzling of Canadian scientists is at odds with the Harper government's repeated promises to be accountable and transparent.
