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Anna Thistle, Opposition Critic for Post-Secondary Education and MHA for the
District of Grand Falls-Buchans, says government has put $14.7 million in
the budget, but refuses to reveal their plans. "I asked important
questions to the Minister of Education in the House of Assembly this
afternoon about government’s plans now that the White Paper process has been
completed," said Thistle. "The Minister refused to deal with any issues
associated with the $14.7 million government put in the budget and will not
reveal the future of access to post-secondary education in rural areas."
Thistle fears that government has plans to consolidate college campuses
in the province, leaving many rural areas without adequate programming. "The
Minister will not confirm the fate of campuses of College of the North
Atlantic in Carbonear, Stephenville, St. Anthony, Seal Cove or Bonavista. I
have serious concerns that programs will be cancelled or moved and
facilities closed as a result of this process.
"In fact, the college is already hiring high level positions and placing
them in St. John’s instead of the headquarters in Stephenville. Anyone
familiar with the cabinet process and government would know that plans are
already in place and decisions made in order to arrive at the $14.7 million
placed in the current budget. It is only a matter of time before the public
is told of the massive restructuring this government has planned for the
college system.
"I am calling on government to make public any plans they have to reform
the college and university system in this province and allow for public
consultation before any final decisions are implemented." |