Liberals offer to kick in for tuition
Last Updated: Thursday, January 5, 2006 | 11:53 AM ET
CBC News
The "50-50" plan, which would pay a maximum of $3,000 in each of those two years for students enrolled in a Canadian college or university, is part of the Liberals' training and education platform.
"Our world is changing; it is growing more competitive. Tomorrow, as today, a quality education and the right training will be the keys to success," Martin said.
Speaking in Waterloo, Ont., Martin said students entering their first year of college or university in the fall of 2007 would be eligible to have half their tuition paid.
Paul Martin, Thursday.
Canada Access grants, which are only available to low-income students in their first year, would be extended so students can qualify for them for four years.
He also spoke about working to have interest rates lowered on student loans and introducing new scholarships.
The Liberals would also change the rules on Employment Insurance so that benefits kick in immediately for Canadians who enrol in national Red Seal training programs, instead of after a two-week wait.
Under the Liberal plan, Ottawa would work with the provinces to double the number of apprenticeships over the next 10 years.
Martin also said his government would help low-income people get over the so-called "welfare wall" by introducing a new working income tax benefit. That, he said, would encourage people to get off welfare and go to work, rather than discouraging them by reducing welfare benefits as wages increase.
