Fredericton — After criticism of the Tuition Access Bursary program, the Gallant government is offering new tuition bursaries that now cover all families who managed to make a life in the province.
“I spoke to the Mitchells and the Augustines this morning. They’re pretty excited,” said Premier Brian Gallant.
With the addition of these latest bursaries, all families with children — of which there are three in the province — now qualify for a tuition bursary from the government.
Recent graduates have mixed feelings about the program. “I’m really happy for Jane [Mitchell]. She’ll get to see her daughter go to school,” said Christie Donaldson, a Mount Allison University graduate from the class of 2009. “I’ll never know that joy. My student loan repayment plan advises against having children until I’m 62.”
Nonetheless, Donaldson hasn’t lost hope. “I read scientists are working on menopause-delay drugs. I would adopt, but I read that isn’t allowed in New Brunswick.”
Recent census data has shown all but three families have left New Brunswick, leaving only singles and the elderly. Donaldson says she remained in the province after graduating with hopes of benefiting from the former tuition rebate program. “Once that was axed, I guess it’s the quality of life that keeps me here.”
Asked what that means, Donaldson paused for over five minutes before providing an answer. “Umm… the trees? Yeah, they’re nice. The trees.”