Montreal mayor joins those criticizing Quebec’s move to double tuition at English Universities for out-of-province students

Montrel mayor Valérie Plante says the Quebec government’s decision to double tuition fees at English universities for out-of-province students is hurting the city’s reputation.

“I’m disappointed because it’s hard for the international reputation of the metropolis of the province of Quebec. It hurts,” she said at a press conference on Wednesday.

Plante said she agreed with the need to protect the French language – but she believes it can achieved while also protecting the economy and attracting talent.

“If this government believes in a strong economy, they want to reduce the gap between Ontario and Quebec, I have to say, this measure what it will support is more people going to Toronto universities. Let’s be honest,” Plante said.

The mayor added that she was surprised by Quebec’s decision and would have liked to be consulted.

“We need workers, we need students, because we want our economy to grow. I want them to have a bigger reflection and not limit it to a fight between francophone and non francophone,” the mayor added while being asked about the issue.

As of September 2024 tuition for out of province students will go up to around $17,000 dollars at English universities – while international students will see their fees rise to at least $20,000 a year.

The decision has been criticized – not only by English universities and the business community – but also by federal ministers and opposition parties at the national assembly.

“I don’t think it’s the best decision,” said Federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez, a Montreal MP. “For me, universities are like a window on the world, and right now, I feel like we’re closing a bit of a window,” he added.

Premier Legault justified the decision saying “the number of English-speaking students in Quebec threatens the survival of the French language.”

– With files from The Canadian Press