The student fight is the New Democratic fight — affordable and accessible post-secondary


As New Democratic critic for Post-Secondary Education, I gave the following one-minute statement in the House of Commons on Thursday (May 30).

 Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

 The average student debt in this country — in terms of federal and provincial loans — stands at $28,000.

 This is how Canadians are expected to begin their careers.

 I say expected, because if the debt isn't bad enough — the unemployment rate for young Canadians is 14.5 per cent, more than double — double — other age groups.

 This is the first generation of young Canadians not to live as well as their parents — pensions and benefits, for example, are under constant attack. 

 Canadians students have much to talk about and they'll get the chance to do that this week during the annual general meeting of the Canadian Federation of Students, Canada's oldest and largest student organization. 

 On behalf of New Democrats, I welcome student representatives from across the country and say YOUR fight — for right for affordable and accessible education for ALL Canadians ...

 YOUR fight is OUR fight. 

 Thank you Mr. Speaker. 

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