McGill principal reacts to Quebec budget
McGill Principal Bernard Shapiro says hes relieved that the zero deficit budget target has finally been achieved by the Quebec government. In a series of interviews during the past 24 hours, he has also hailed the steps taken by Quebec to recognize the universities strategic role in developing the new knowledge-based economy. "All of the investments in education announced by Minister Landry in his budget this week are crucial elements in our overall recovery and appear to be moving us in the right direction," notes the Principal.
At the same, Dr Shapiro points out that unless drastic steps are taken with regard to the base budget of all Quebec universities, the governments initiatives will "not produce the dividends expected." He goes on, "Unless our universities have the resources to pay professors, and equally important to hire young professors, then the future of Quebec higher education is in serious jeopardy. World class teachers and researchers with innovative ideas are urgently needed now to continue the tradition of international excellence so vital to our societys well-being and our place in the global economy of the 21st century."
