A demonstration against austerity measures by the government of the Canadian province of Quebec drew thousands of students, teachers and unionists into the streets of Montreal on Thursday (April 2).
Organizers say the rally and march was the largest so far this year in the fight against the Quebec Liberal government’s plans to reduce spending on education, health care and social services.
The day before the demonstration, Quebec Education Minister François Blais suggested universities expel students who “take it too far” during protests. “If it was done to two or three people a day, it would cool down, I think, some of the enthusiasm.” He later qualified his remarks.
“As future lawyers, we have a responsibility to make sure that we’re standing up for groups that are vulnerable that would be affected by austerity cuts,” said Jacob Schweda, a McGill law student.
Student demonstrations in Quebec three years ago against university tuition hikes led to months of demonstrations and the eventual defeat of the provincial government.
More information:
CBC News – Quebec students, unions, teachers march against government cuts – here
Montreal Gazette – Students, teachers and unions take part in anti-austerity protest – here
CTV News – Thousands gather in Montreal for anti-austerity protest – here
CBC News – Quebec student protests: What you need to know – here
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