Ford destroys plan to move law school to Paul Martin Building

In question period on Monday, Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky said the Ford government’s decision to scrap funding for the relocation of the University of Windsor’s Law School to the Paul Martin Building downtown risks destroying the plan entirely, as the province is the only key player refusing to do its part.

“This was a unique opportunity for federal, municipal and provincial governments to work together with University of Windsor and community partners to create a downtown experience for students while also boosting the local economy,” said Gretzky. “Now, everyone is at the table except for the Ford government — because Doug Ford cut the funding and walked away.”

The Paul Martin Building has long been the proposed site to house the University of Windsor’s Law school. After five years of negotiation with all levels of government, the University of Windsor pulled the plug on the project because the Liberal government refused to come to the table with funding. But when the province finally made a $20 million commitment earlier this year, community hopes were lifted.

“By relocating the school and its 800 students, faculty and staff to the Paul Martin building, local businesses and community organizations were looking forward to the economic growth that the move would generate,” said Gretzky. “We also know that getting more students and young professionals into the downtown core will contribute to the continued revitalization and prosperity of our community.”

Gretzky also highlighted that the local Conservative candidate in Windsor West was supportive of the project going forward just a few months before.

“In the provincial election, the PCs even campaigned on this issue locally,” said Gretzky.

“Why is the Ford government choosing to see the Paul Martin building collect dust rather than contributing to a project that will revitalize our downtown core?” asked Gretzky.