Vaughn Granter - not the choice for Humber West - examine why

Let's look at the possible reasons for Vaughn Granter's decision not to participate in a debate regarding the environment - organized in the district he seeks to be elected in.

First: we are talking about a district (Humber West) that has lead the way in environmental discussions in the past - including topics such as clear cutting, mechanical harvesting, tourism development projects, salmon fishing, river stewardship, and most recently the burning of tires at the paper mill for energy.

Second: we are talking about a principal of a high school and a PC website proclaimed educational leader.

Third: we are talking about the location of the debate which is the Grenfell University Campus. The baby of the PC government - promoting autonomy and independence for the institution. (until somebody stopped the progress)

Possible reasons:

1. Vaughn Granter is not an educational leader and has no respect for the democratic process. Thereby making him a political fraud. (his own decision)

2. Vaughn Granter is an educational leader - does believe in the democratic process but has no backbone to buck the party brass. (not his own decision)

3. Vaughn Granter believes he should debate but is afraid to tackle Rosie Myers and Mark Watton. This means he is not the best candidate for the job. (his own cowardly decision)

Examine - if he is a political fraud then obviously - he should not receive a vote. If he is being told what to do then he will follow the party line on issues and not what's best for you the voter. Or finally if he does not feel comfortable with the issues of the district to debate - then he cannot be the best representative.

Any other possibilities you can think of?

The shame remains though on a principal who avoids a significant debate - being held at an educational institution. The example he sets is appalling.

Put the Choice to Students

Let's get to it.

Lower tuition - and greater non-repayable grants for students moving to St. John's to study at MUN (yes I still call it that) - might be more attractive to students. That's who we are doing it for - right?

In order to keep graduates in the province we must lower the debt burden on students. I have listened to them and their union reps for over a decade requesting lower tuition (if not free) lower interest and more assistance for students who have to move to St. John's. I have not heard them bellow for Grenfell's independence.

What is most important is that quality education is offered and at a reasonable price. Considering the return on investment the province receives from an educated population - tuition should be free.

Accessibility should be extended to Central and Labrador - with the remainder of the investment to lower tuition.

Has the student body had a vote? How may students participate? We have children under 10 traveling in buses for hours to get to primary and elementary - surely our students can travel - but the cost should be covered.

I want to hear want the student body has to say - and I want to hear it before a final decision is made. If not the Grenfell separation is nothing more than a politicians legacy to himself.