MUN students plan to protest Board of Regents meeting

For the first time since the announcement of the Newfoundland and Labradorbudget, the Memorial University Board of Regents will discussthe university's financial situation, whilestudent groups plan to protest outside.

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In a statement Thursday, the Memorial University Students' Union announced that it would rally before the 3 p.m. meetingto show support for keeping tuition fees frozen.

"For many years, the Board of Regents has understood the importance of a tuition freeze to attracting and retaining young people in Newfoundland and Labrador and building a stronger economy," said RenataLang,MUNSUdirector of student life.

"At a time when students are already facing a tax on textbooks and cuts to needs-based grants, the Board must continue to prioritize the tuition fee freeze or risk jeopardizing the future prosperity of this province."

Students will rally outside the Arts and Administration Building.

Business group seeks higher tuition fees

In contrast, Vaughn Hammond, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business'director of provincial affairs for Newfoundland and Labrador, is seeking a long-term plan for the university's finances, including a tuition fee increase.

"It is incumbent on the Board of Regents to begin discussions immediately on how it plans to lessen Memorial University's reliance on government transfers," said Hammond.

"Unfortunately, this means less operating spending and increases in tuition and other student fees, but it has to be done."