Investing in Memorial University and the College of the North Atlantic a priority with government

Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education Minister Anna Thistle says Budget 2003 initiatives strengthen government�s support to Memorial University and the College of the North Atlantic.

In 2003-04, Memorial will receive an additional $13.1 million in operating funds, bringing its total budget allocation to $145 million. This budget enables Memorial University to conduct a $5 million capital infrastructure renewal program this year. "Investing in programs and infrastructure at Memorial is a priority of government," said Minister Thistle. "In partnership with Memorial University, we are ensuring sustainable high quality, post-secondary education within our province."

In addition, government is continuing its commitment to the Memorial University Opportunity Fund with a further $2.1 million investment. The Opportunity Fund has provided major scholarship and fellowship endowments, and funded the new Field House, as well as new student centres at both the St. John�s and Corner Brook campuses.

"To date we have provided $26.4 million to this fund, which is a substantial commitment to our public post-secondary education system," added Minister Thistle.

Minister Thistle said government remains committed to ensuring a quality community college system throughout the province. The provincial net operating grant to the College of the North Atlantic will increase in 2003-04 from $47.4 million to $50.6 million. Additional capital works funding of $2.3 million is also being provided to continue to ensure quality education at the Prince Phillip Drive Campus of the College of the North Atlantic.

Government previously invested $6.5 million in the construction of a new medical science complex at Prince Phillip Drive. This facility offers a quality learning environment for health-related programs. Government also provided $1.6 million to refurbish the library at this campus.

The additional $2.3 million for capital works at Prince Phillip Drive will see further work carried out at the facility in 2003-04 to upgrade wiring and install new windows and siding at the rear of the building.

Government remains committed to ensuring a quality community college system throughout the province and this increase in their net operating budget ensures the college has the necessary financial resources to deliver on this mandate.

"Our public post-secondary institutions deliver quality education and training programs and with Budget 2003 investments by the province, these institutions will continue to provide training that is among the best in the country," said Minister Thistle.

Media contact: Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Communications, (709) 729-6573.

2003 03 27                                        4:35 p.m.