Province mum on tuition plans

In responding to requests made at a rally by the Canadian Federation of Students today, the Nova Scotian government cited budgetary concerns as to why they cannot talk about specific tuition plans yet.

Premier Darrell Dexter speaks to reporters after cabinet meeting. Photo: Jared Hochman

The Nova Scotia government had no immediate reaction following a protest earlier today by members of the Canadian Federation of Students.

The federation rallied outside Premier Darrell Dexter’s office this morning, asking the premier to take further action regarding student tuition fees.

Premier Dexter acknowledged the group’s requests, but believes his government is heading in the right direction.

“I think we’re in the circumstance in this province where tuition fees are continuing to go down,” he said. “We’re looking to be at the national average as something that was set some time ago.”

The premier said it is too early for his government to respond to the federation’s requests.

“All these things become budget questions, and they have to be dealt with within the context of the financial situation of the province,” Dexter said.

The new provincial budget is expected to be released in the coming months.

Education Minister Marilyn More said the province is still committed to making post-secondary education available to a larger group of people.

“There are other initiatives that we’ll be looking at, but part of it is public policy and part of it is part of the budget process, so it’s difficult to get into details at this stage,” she said.

“But certainly our universities and community colleges are an important part of the answer.”

When asked about Michael Ignatieff’s comment on Monday, in which the leader of the national Liberal Party said he would be in favour of the federal government giving money to the provinces specifically for post-secondary education, the premier wasn’t opposed. The provinces have historically fought any effort by Ottawa to direct funds for specific areas.

“Look, I’m so much in favour of more money, you have no idea,” he said.

The premier added that the province will be holding public consultations about the budget, and that representatives from the federation should provide their opinions there.

Comments on this story are now closed