With the NDP leadership race underway, Alberta MP Heather McPherson took part in a University of Ottawa town hall Tuesday to answer students’ questions about affordability and Palestine.
Dozens turned up at Morisset Library for an event co-hosted by Carleton University’s NDP. McPherson has expressed interest in leading the New Democrats with the party’s leadership election looming in March.
McPherson talked up a bill she previously put forward to ensure federal funding goes to universities.
McPherson added there is a connection between education affordability and youth unemployment, and spoke of her support for the Canada Summer Jobs program.
McPherson also touched on housing as a challenge for young people, pointing out the high costs of renting and buying homes.
“Mark Carney talks a lot about big nation-building projects. Making sure people have a place to live is a nation building project,” McPherson said.
The New Democrat said Canadians are not at fault for the worsening economic climate.
“The system that was supposed to ensure that each and every one of you could afford a house… could buy groceries, could pay your rent, could pay for school, could get an education, could get a good job, those systems are stacked against you.”
“I’d love to hear about tuition decreases or, potentially more government funding… within the education system,” said Eric Koinski Da Silva, a third-year political science student.
“There’s so many issues right now that affect young people. Housing, affordability, I think they’re definitely top of mind for me,” added Malaika Collette, a fourth-year student in environmental studies.
Responding to questions from students, McPherson added she supports the cancellation of free trade agreements with Israel, an arms embargo and sanctions against Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration.
She highlighted her support for student political activism in raising awareness for progressive change.
“I’m so proud of the University of Ottawa and students across the country who have been consistently and loudly using their voices to advocate for Canada to do more,” McPherson said.
Featured image by Brendon Poste/The Charlatan
