Ontario premier firm on funding for Catholic schools

Liberal Premier Dalton McGuinty of Ontario has ruled out ending state funding for Catholic schools after one his key education advisers suggested in a radio interview that it could eventually be eliminated.

Education guru Michael Fullan said on CBC Radio’s Metro Morning that the issue of publicly bankrolling any faith-based schools would have to be addressed down the line.

Fullan’s comments are controversial during the current provincial election campaign given Progressive Conservative Leader John Tory’s promise to extend funding to other faith-based schools beyond just the Catholic system. The move could also have a broader, nationwide impact since Ontario is Canada’s most populous province.

Speaking to reporters at a rural school in Newburgh, close to Kingston, McGuinty played down the comments, according to The Star.

“I’ve got all kinds of advice from all kinds of people with respect to the future of publicly funded education in Ontario,” the Liberal leader was quoted as saying. “I’m always appreciative of the advice, but at the end of the day I’m the one charged with the responsibility to serve Ontarians as their premier.”

Our mission is the truth. Join us!

Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.