American scientists who were part of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change are getting a pat on the back from the White House, while their Candian counterparts seem to be getting the cold shoulder from Ottawa.

The UN panel of scientists shared this year's Nobel Peace Prize with former American vice-president Al Gore. The panel, which released three detailed reports earlier this year on the state of climate change and its effect on the environment, is made up of scientists from around the world.

The Americans on the panel have been invited to the White House for a reception with President George W. Bush to celebrate their work and the award.

But the 20 or so Canadian scientists who were part of the Nobel-winning group haven't heard a peep from the Canadian government.

Asked by the CBC whether there are any plans to recognize the Canadian effort, Environment Minister John Baird said, "It's not something that I've thought about but I think we should honour the great work that they've done. I expect myself and other ministers where these scientists work in our department will want to honour the great work that they've done."

Pressed as to when that might happen, Baird would only say, "I don't normally look to George Bush for leadership on day to day issues. "

Not even, it seems, when it comes to throwing a party.