Summer provides an important opportunity for MPs to connect with their constituents. I have enjoyed speaking with many members of our community across the beautiful riding of Thunder Bay – Superior North.
As the summer wraps up, students will be returning to school. Unfortunately, for too many Canadians, rising costs have made post-secondary education less affordable.
Fewer people are able to save enough for their education and the debt loads when they graduate are sometimes insurmountable.
The constant worry of not being able to access quality education can prevent students from acquiring the learning and skills they need to get a good job and join the middle class.
That’s why our government is making significant changes that will help students returning to class this fall on campuses across the country.
Our government announced the first significant increase to the Canadian Student Grants program since 2009. Student Grant amounts have increased by 50 per cent; from $2,000 to $3,000 per year for full-time students from low-income families and from $800 to $1,200 per year for students from middle-income families.
We’re growing the middle class by making post-secondary education more affordable and accessible. We have also made changes to the student loans program.
Now, students won’t have to repay their loans until they’re earning at least $25,000 a year – and the government will cover the interest payments.
Additionally, investments through the Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund will help Canada’s universities and colleges develop highly-skilled workers, act as engines of discovery, and collaborate on innovations that help Canadian companies compete and grow internationally.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that young voices must be part of our decision making process and that’s why I am launching a new initiative to bring youth together from across Thunder Bay – Superior North to engage with the federal political process.
I want to hear from youth in the community and am inviting anyone from the ages of 15 - 22 to apply to the Thunder Bay – Superior North Youth Council.
You can apply until September 30th and the council will include youth from different schools, neighborhoods and local associations. Once selected, the council will meet several times through the year to discuss issues that matter to youth, the community and the country.
If you want to join the Thunder Bay – Superior North youth council, apply here!
As always if you have questions or concerns, please contact the constituency office at 807-766-2090 or by email, patty.hajdu@parl.gc.ca.
I look forward to hearing from you and I wish everyone success in the upcoming school year!
Sincerely,
Patty Hajdu
