Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the amendment being proposed today is relatively minor in terms of actual legislative change, but will provide significant opportunities in the future for northern residents.
At the present time, the Public Colleges Act does not allow Aurora College to issue degrees. This means that Northerners can begin their studies here at home, but must travel south to finish degrees in programs such as nursing, teaching, social work and management studies.
The proposed amendments would allow Aurora College to establish degree programs at the appropriate time. We do not expect to immediately deliver the four year degree programming through the College. Instead, this change will allow the college to undertake the necessary planning to set up degree programs which meet the needs of Northerners and are recognized as on par with other Canadian institutions.
Mr. Chairman, I look forward to answering any questions Members might have about the amendment. Thank you.