Thank you for your letter of Feb. 18 concerning the federal budget measures relating to post-secondary education.

The Government of Canada recognizes its responsibility to help ensure Canadians will have continued access to a high-quality, post-secondary educational system. I have noted your support for specific measures announced in the budget, including the creation of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the renewal of Centres of Excellence, the Industrial Research Assistance Program, Registered Savings Education Plan and tax changes to assist students and their families, the extension of interest relief under the Canada Student Loans Program, and the government’s intention to pursue an income-related repayment option.

I also appreciate your suggestions regarding further improvements to student assistance. I welcome your comments and appreciate the efforts of the Canadian Association of University Teachers as part of the coalition of groups which has presented a consensus view on this issue. The recent meeting of the National Advisory Group on Student Financial Assistance in March provided an opportunity for further consideration of important issues relating to student aid in Canada, and I understand that the discussions were most useful and informative.

Over the next several months, student assistance will be the subject of a great deal of discussion, and I certainly encourage your organization to continue to play an active role. Human Resources Development Canada remains committed to consultation with all interested parties as it well recognizes and appreciates the valuable insight which groups such as the Canadian Association of University Teachers can provide in this area.

Thank you again for sharing your views on the federal government’s role in assisting post-secondary students.

Pierre S. Pettigrew
Minister of Human Resources Development, Canada