Open Letter from Rosario Marchese to Minister Bentley

Last week, Maclean’s reported on the announcement that Algoma University College is about to become Algoma University. Tonight, I received an open letter from Rosario Marchese, the NDP critic for Training, Colleges and Universities to Minister Bentley.

Here it is:

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May 31, 2007

Hon Chris Bentley
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
Mowat Block, 3rd Flr, 900 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 1L2

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OPEN LETTER

Dear Minister Bentley,

I read with interest your intention to introduce legislation to establish Algoma University College as an independent university.

New Democrats understand the need for a university in Algoma and support its creation. That is the reason why I despair that your promise is too little too late to be a real commitment to Algoma. Instead of making an effort to support the region during your four years in government, you have waited to nearly the end of your term to make a promise to introduce legislation in the fall.

As you well know, the provincial election takes place in October. I fear that your commitment is nothing more than an election promise and nothing less than a vehicle for re-election.

If your intentions are true and you want to do right by Algoma, why not make a serious commitment to sit in the House through June or as long as it takes to allow this promised legislation to be introduced, debated and passed.

Otherwise, leave election promises where they belong - on they campaign trail.

Sincerely,

(original signed by)

Rosario Marchese
NDP Education Critic

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Expect more announcements and letters like this as we approach the election in October.