Dr. Christopher Ragan, Clifford Clark Visiting Economist

Dr. Christopher Ragan has been a professor in the Department of Economics at McGill University since 1989 and a member of the C.D. Howe Institute’s Monetary Policy Council since 2003. During 2004-05, he served as the Special Advisor to the Governor of the Bank of Canada, bringing his perspective to monetary policy discussions. He was also a visiting economist at the Bank of Canada between 1996 and 1997.

Dr. Ragan’s extensive research has focused on the role of economic policy, specifically the objectives and conduct of monetary policy. He has published several articles in such notable academic journals as Economica, Labour Economics, Canadian Journal of Economics, Canadian Public Policy, Canadian Business Economics, and Policy Options.

The position of Clifford Clark Visiting Economist, established in 1983, honours the late Dr. Clifford Clark, who served as Deputy Minister of Finance from 1932 until his death in 1952. Occupants of the position advise the Department on emerging economic issues and take part in policy development at the highest level. They are recruited from the ranks of prominent Canadian professionals with proven expertise in economic, financial and monetary issues in the business and academic communities.

Previous holders of this post include:

• 2006-2008: Brian Crowley
• 2002-2004: Harold MacKay
• 1998-2001: Robert Brown
• 1996-1998: Jack Mintz
• 1994-1995: Peter Nicholson
• 1990-1991: Ken Norrie
• 1989-1990: Chuck Freedman
• 1987-1989: John Helliwell
• 1985-1986: Douglas Purvis
• 1983-1985: Douglas Peters