WHEREAS the average Canadian student's debt at graduation has increased from
$8,000 in 1990 to $25,000 in 2002, and in BC fees are increasing by as much
as 300%; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the B.C. Federation of Labour call for tuition
fees in BC to be frozen at the May 2001 levels; and demand that the BC
government immediately reduce tuition fees to 2001 levels and reinstate the
tuition freeze and the first year student grant; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Federation support the Canadian Federation
of Students in their demands for a progressive reduction in post-secondary
tuition fees by 5% in each academic year, increased provincial funding,
additionally funded seats dedicated to students unable to pay, and a
restored and expanded grants program; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Federation, through the Canadian Labour
Congress, call on the federal government to restore federal funding for
post-secondary education by increasing transfer payments by at least $3.7
billion (1993 levels) and to negotiate a national agreement on standards of
quality, accessibility and mobility.
This resolution was passed, like most others, with no or negligible
opposition.