Green Party Would Free-up University Graduates for Community Work

Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2000 15:19:30 -0400 (AST)
From: Heather Breeze <aa670@chebucto.ns.ca>
To: jean_laroche@cbc.ca, cathy_large@cbc.ca, sust-mar@chebucto.ns.ca, gpcns-news@chebucto.ns.ca
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Press Release
November 16, 2000
For Immediate Release

GREEN PARTY WOULD FREE-UP UNIVERSITY GRADUATES
FOR COMMUNITY WORK

The Green Party wants Ottawa to eliminate university user fees, and allow 
graduates stuck with big student debt the option of repaying it through 
community service. 

Michael Oddy, the Green candidate for Halifax, will discuss his party's 
education platform at tonight's all-candidates debate at Saint Mary's 
University (McNally Auditorium at 6 p.m.).

"A society benefits from having graduates come out of university debt-free -- 
just look at Ireland and Denmark," he said. "Young graduates are the most able 
in our society in starting small businesses and tackling the real problems in 
our communities. They should not be crippled with debt before they are out of 
the starting gate."

Oddy said Canadian society hurts itself by shackling debt upon its youngest 
scientists, writers and artists. He said community groups are desperate for 
their expertise. Canadian arts and culture would also benefit.

Postsecondary funding must also be given more public support to ensure Canada's 
brightest minds aren't answering research questions posed by corporations 
looking for a profit, said Oddy. Public funds from Canada's current surplus 
position, as well as funds redirected from government corporate and military 
subsidies, would pay for such a reformed education system.

Oddy, a 42-year-old high school teacher, has three university degrees. He 
teaches at Sir John A. Macdonald High School. He believes education should be a 
complete "cradle-to-grave" system that develops critical-thinkers who have the 
skills to be full and active citizens.

"Primary education is paid for. High school education is paid for. Universities 
should be as well." 

Oddy fully supports the national platform of the Green Party of Canada 
(www.green.ca). More than 100 candidates are running nationally this year for 
the Greens. Internationally, Greens hold government posts in Germany, Mexico, 
France, New Zealand, Italy and Norway.

-30-

For more information please call
Michael Oddy, Green candidate for Halifax
876-7203 during school hours (leave a message with secretary and Michael will 
call back ASAP)
857-2058 home

Stephen Myrden or Cait Redmond, campaign co-managers
431-7636



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