LONDON – Ontario Critic for Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, Peggy Sattler (London West), MPP Teresa Armstrong (London – Fanshawe) and MPP Terence Kernaghan (London North Centre) have released the joint statement following reports of program and funding cuts at London’s Fanshawe College:
“Fanshawe’s cuts mean our community is losing local jobs, and the supports students rely on every day,” said Armstrong. “When programs shrink, families lose opportunities and neighbourhoods lose stability. London deserves a college system that strengthens our community, not one forced into painful layoffs and service reductions across our city.”
“Ontario’s colleges and universities drive innovation and economic growth in our province,” said Sattler. “Chronic underfunding has pushed institutions like Fanshawe to the brink, threatening programs, research, and student supports. The government must deliver stable, predictable funding so campuses can plan, protect jobs, and provide quality education for future generations across Ontario. Instead, they are forcing academic institutions to continue to cut.”
“These layoffs send a chilling message to young people in London and across Ontario,” added Kernaghan. “When we cut educators and staff, we limit training opportunities, weaken our workforce, and undermine the province’s long-term competitiveness. This government is actively weakening the very pillars that support our province’s economic prosperity."