Students and faculty members at LaSalle College in Montreal united on Thursday to urge the Quebec government to reach a resolution with the college, allowing classes to resume.
The demonstration was sparked by the college’s decision to halt classes for a second consecutive year just days before the scheduled start date.
Recently, LaSalle College was granted creditor protection by the Quebec Superior Court as it seeks to resolve a $47 million debt to the government. This debt comprises fines of nearly $30 million for surpassing English-Language enrollment limits, as well as $17 million in government subsidies that Quebec is seeking reimbursement for.
One of the student leaders of the protest, Maynard McKinnon, expressed disappointment in the ongoing dispute between the government and the institution. “I feel let down by my school and the government,” McKinnon stated. “Last year, classes started on August 26. This year, the uncertainty is unsettling.”
McKinnon emphasized the importance of transparency from LaSalle College, stating that students were informed of the class suspensions through social media and news outlets rather than direct communication from the school.
Demanding action from the Quebec government, McKinnon stressed the desire for a mutually beneficial agreement between the parties involved.
Moreover, McKinnon highlighted that students share the government’s commitment to preserving the French language, emphasizing their dedication to learning and embracing French while attending the college.
Meanwhile, faculty member Lara Jaber, who teaches finance and accounting at LaSalle College, voiced support for the students and expressed concerns over the lack of clarity regarding the resumption of classes. Jaber urged the government to engage in negotiations and provide stability to English-language institutions.
As the uncertainty persists, both students and teachers remain steadfast in their calls for the government to intervene and facilitate the reopening of LaSalle College.
