Marit Stiles forces debate on OSAP cuts

QUEEN’S PARK — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition NDP, will be forcing a debate and vote at Queen’s Park on Doug Ford’s OSAP cuts.

Stiles’ Opposition Day motion calls on Ford to reverse his cuts to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), and scrap the interest on student loan payments to ensure opportunities for Ontario’s youth.

“Ontario’s young people need relief,” said Stiles. “Instead of investing in their future, Doug Ford has trapped them in a vicious cycle; fewer opportunities, soaring rent, and out-of-control costs. This motion is the urgent first step toward delivering that relief.

“Ford’s cuts to OSAP have left countless students faced with either giving up on their dreams or a lifetime debt sentence. Young people aren't giving up on this fight, and neither are we. That's why we’re forcing Doug Ford to debate and vote on these cuts.”

“OSAP used to be a lifeline for students and their families,” said Shadow Minister for Colleges and Universities Peggy Sattler (London West). “Doug Ford has turned it into an anchor, weighing them down with decades of crushing debt. Rather than invest in our next generation, the Premier has placed barriers in the way of their education.

“The Conservatives must urgently pass this motion so Ontario’s youth can get ahead, and use their education to drive our province’s economy into the future.”

“Reversing these cuts, and scrapping the interest is just the first step,” added Stiles. “Tuition was already too expensive before the Conservatives lifted the freeze. Young people should be graduating into opportunities, not debt.

“It’s time for the Premier to put down the silver spoon, pick up a pen, and invest in Ontario’s future.”