This Tuesday morning, an assembly of student and labour union representatives called the Campus Coalition, gathered with media to announce a new campaign to increase government funding to Memorial. The group is requesting a meeting with Premier Andrew Furey.
“Our campuses are crumbling around us, tuition fees are increasing at alarming rates to try and make up the funding shortfalls … workers are trying to do more with less” said MUNSU Executive Director of External Affairs Nicolas Keough.
The newly launched campaign against cuts and for increased investment in Memorial University calls itself #FundMUN.
“Our university is celebrating 100 years … What better way to celebrate the university and its importance to our province… by stopping the cuts and restoring funding to MUN” said CUPE 1615 President Bill Kavanagh.
The Campus Coalition brings together the Graduate Students Union, Marine Institute Students’ Union, Grenfell Students Union, and the undergraduate student union, MUNSU, in tandem with several campus labour unions including:
MUNFA, represents tenured and contract professors and librarians
CUPE 1615, represents administrative, instructional, technical, and technical support staff
CUPE 4554, represents MUNSU staff
NAPE 7405 & other NAPE members employed in fields such as campus enforcement, maintenance and custodial.
LUMUN, represents per-course instructors
TAUMUN, represents teaching assistants
FundMUN’s participating organizations represent over 20,000 students, faculty and staff.
The Campus Coalition launched a website where they have encouraged community members to visit and review their resources. Organizers say they are encouraging the public to write the premier with concerns about what they consider to be the decline of Memorial.
Through the campaign, organizers from labour and student unions are planning to mobilize outreach to government, media and the public to raise awareness and grow support to improve conditions at MUN.
“Our campuses are crumbling around us,” said MUNSU External Director Nicolas Keough, referring to infrastructure issues including the continued presence of asbestos throughout campus.
CUPE 1615 president Bill Kavanagh (Jake Laybolt/The Muse)
Student-worker solidarity amid shared concerns
“Workers are trying to do more with less,” Keough continued.
The solidarity of the different organizations marks an interesting development of unified interests.
Labour unions seem to be equally concerned about tuition as students, and students seemed to be equally concerned about the state of the university’s operating budget which employs countless staff across MUN.
The decline of conditions at MUN through infrastructure stands in contrast to the increased tuition. “We are down-loading the cuts to our post-secondary system onto the shoulders of an entire generation of people in our province,” said Keough.
This comes amidst previous commitments by the Premier to re-evaluate MUN funding after his government brought the end of the 22-year tuition freeze. In 2021, the province announced it was phasing out $68.4 million from the yearly tuition offset grant over the course of five years. Since this move, tuition at Memorial has more than doubled for domestic students, and doubled for international students.
Keough continued by calling upon Premier Furey to meet with students after over 500 days without a meeting.
MUNFA VP External Lisa Moores comments on cuts
MUNFA VP External and Associate Professor of Counselling, Lisa Moores followed this by stressing the importance of MUN to the provincial economy and culture, referring to the need to honour its namesake which memorialized the sacrifice of those who fought in World War I.
“Continuing to allow the degradation of the University’s ability to function properly is a disservice to the people of the province and to the memory of those it honours.”
Moores also called upon Premier Furey to meet with the student-worker coalition and assist with the university’s precarious situation.
MUNFA VP External Lisa Moores (Jake Laybolt/The Muse)
CUPE 1615 President grades MUN’s infrastructure
Representing the administrative and technical staff was President Bill Kavanagh who spoke on behalf of all non-academic staff across several locals.
Among his concerns is an outstanding cost for deferred maintenance fees which they estimate to be a total of $481 million across the various buildings at Memorial. The situation is due in part from a discontinued maintenance funding program from the government which concluded in 2018. That program provided the university with provisions ranging from $4-10 million per year.
Additionally, the facilities condition index, a metric used to rate infrastructure, revealed a concerning state of affairs. 0-5% is excellent, 5-10% is acceptable, and greater than 10% is ‘fair to poor.’ MUN’s own target of 12%, was eclipsed by its actual rating of 28% across all campuses.
“It is not hyperbolic when we say that our campuses are crumbling around us, they literally are,” said Kavanagh
Kavanagh urged the public to contact members of the house of assembly; he also called upon Furey, who received three degrees from MUN, to contemplate his alumnus status during the next provincial budget.
MUN Responds
“We recognize that many people, inside Memorial University and throughout our province, care deeply about the university and want to see it succeed,” said MUN spokesperson Chad Pelley via email.
“Our priority is ensuring that Memorial can continue to fulfil its teaching, research and public engagement mandate within the context of a constrained provincial budget and multi-year reductions in the university’s operating grant. The challenges associated with this are a part of our ongoing conversations with the provincial government.”
The Muse has reached out to Premier Furey for comment and will update with his response.
On Tuesday, Sep. 17, several members of MUN Students for Palestine (MUNS4P), masked by keffiyehs, lowered a banner above President Pro Tempore Neil Bose, during his speech in the QE II library commemorating MUN’s 100-year anniversary.
The banner read “a century of complicity. Don’t celebrate, demand change” in reference to a history of financial ties of the university since its founding in 1925, that the group calls “a legacy of shame“.
In an Instagram post MUNS4P refers to historical funding received by the Carnegie Foundation, past investments in apartheid South Africa, and the current $7.1 million investment in companies tied to Israel’s war on Gaza and illegal settlements.
Organizer with MUNS4P Sadie Mees explained what she views as the importance of the protest and divestment campaign.
“The main point behind the protest was to let the administration know that the students are still here and still fighting.”
“Every little bit counts, right?” said Mees. “Like when you think about South African apartheid, it wasn’t like one day a switch flipped and all of a sudden everybody all at once divested from spartheid and said ‘we’re not okay with this anymore.’“
“It happens little by little, it happens bit by bit, and so every little piece counts, and we could be one of the pebbles that starts the avalanche of people condemning the genocide, and hopefully applying international pressure on Israel to stop.“
Spokesperson Chad Pelley said that MUN had no comment on the protest.
BREAKING: Students protest MUN centennial event, calling for divestment from weapons manufacturers involved in Israel’s war on Gaza. pic.twitter.com/sXKe2yR6LX
Oates calls protesters “local village idiots, cosplaying as terrorists,” apologizes
MUN mechanical engineering student Ben Oates took to social media to comment.
“‘Why won’t Furey meet with us?,’” referencing MUNSU’s recent demand to meet with the premier on student cost of living issues, “says the local village idiots, cosplaying as terrorists,” Oates said on Instagram.
“Tune in tomorrow to the MUNSU council chambers as I deliver a reality check to the local Communist Pa—I mean MUNSU board.”
The comment about protesters masked with keffiyehs, a traditional headdress and symbol of the pro-Palestine movement, drew response from a Palestinian student, who has requested to remain anonymous due to fear of reprisal from Israeli officials should he return home.
At the meeting the following day, he called this comment racist, and said that “the Keffiyeh is actually not worn even by members of Hamas …. If you go through the pictures, Hamas doesn’t wear the keffiyeh. It’s actually worn in the West Bank more than the Gaza Strip.”
A day later Oates apologized for this comment via Instagram.
“With a sincere commitment to continuous learning and engagement, I realize that the story I posted yesterday was inflammatory and counterproductive. To those whom I have hurt or offended, I apologize.”
Oates presents letter to MUNSU Board
A day after the protest, on Wednesday Sep. 18, Oates addressed the MUNSU board. “Yesterday, I drew attention to belligerent and wildly inflammatory actions taken by student protestors who disrupted an event in the QEII Library,” Oates said.
He said the protest “served only to aggravate others while not advancing meaningful causes.”
“The onus is on MUNSU and its associated organizations to conduct themselves in a more professional, welcoming, and inclusive manner to ensure MUN students are not caught in their crossfire, and also to foster an environment of respectful, democratic debate.”
He said that MUNSU’s “initiatives are misguided, ineffective and counterproductive,” and that “in recent years MUNSU has transitioned from a student representative organization into a soapbox for elevating a certain political ideology and agenda.”
He presented a letter to the board, citing grievances from himself and 31 other students, who he said chose to remain anonymous. Oates said that MUNSU has made students feel mistreated and neglected by their student union.
“I put to you that regardless of what you say your intention is, the perception of a growing number of students is that you are spending our money on personal initiatives that do not consistently serve students without any opportunity for our input,” Oates said.
Oates said that although he supports “an immediate ceasefire and an end to genocide, sweeping humanitarian aid to Palestinians and a release of all hostages, an end to illegal Israeli occupations in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and recognition of the State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel,” he and unnamed others feel that MUNSU’s role in the Palestine protests abandoned their core values and alienated themselves from the MUN student-body.
Organizer with MUN Students for Palestine Sadie Mees defends what she views as the the importance of the divestment campaign to Palestinian students. pic.twitter.com/22DPO5M39X
Oates issued seven recommendations to the board. The first of which called for the suspension of MUNSU public campaigns unless they receive “the express consent and consultation of at least 50% of the general student population.”
This proposal was met with laughter from some members of the MUNSU board, but Oates continued and added “or if a given MUNSU executive receives at least a 50% voter turnout in its elections, whichever applies first.”
Other proposals included tripling funding to clubs and societies, banning partisan political activity of board members, and making student union fees optional.
MUNSU accepted the letter into the official record in a 12-1-0 vote, with Executive Director of External Affairs Nicolas Keough being the only abstention.
“I definitely think all student feedback is warranted, we listen to feedback, we have a feedback form online that we regularly check and we are waiting to hear on how we can improve engagement with the union,” Keough said.
“That’s absolutely what our goal is, increase engagement and voter turnout.”
Keough took issue with some of Oates’ comments on Palestine, saying that he did not stand by them and that some Palestinian and Arab students in the room felt that they had racial undertones.
Keough said that Oates’ proposal to require over 50% of students to consent before taking a political position or over 50% turnout was unreasonable.
“I would love to see if any other student union in the country has a policy like that, because I don’t think so.” Keough said.
MUN Students For Palestine responds
MUNS4P organizer Sadie Mees voiced her opposition to Oates’ comments against MUNSU’s support for the divestment campaign.
“I personally disagreed with it” said Mees. “There are Palestinian students here, there are Palestinians in our community and I think it’s important to think about supporting our community members and caring about each other.”
“The job of the student union is to advocate for students. And I mean, students are being affected by this, so it’s their job to advocate for it.”
“I would encourage people to really get into touch with compassion and empathy for others, because it can be tempting to look away from the suffering that’s happening and it can be easier to tell yourself that there’s nothing we can do about it and it doesn’t matter.“
“It’s part of a global movement and what we’re doing does matter.“
MUNSU is demanding a meeting with Premier Andrew Furey to discuss the impact of tuition hikes, rising living costs, and food insecurity on Memorial students. In a video posted on September 6th, Executive Director of External Affairs Nicolas Keough said the student union would like to address these issues with the premier before the Student Day of Action on October 2nd.
According to Keough, Furey has not met with the student union in over 500 days.
“If the official student government of the largest post-secondary institution in the province wants to meet to discuss an issue impacting thousands of students, he should be able to meet with them,” said Keough.
“The dismissal we’ve seen from the Furey government over this incredibly serious issue is highly alarming and we look forward to setting up a time to meet with the Premier in the coming weeks.”
The Muse reached out to Premier Furey for comment on MUNSU’s request for a meeting to discuss the re-evaluation of the tuition freeze.
The Premier did not commit to a future meeting with MUNSU.
“Tuition decisions lie with the university,” says premiers office
This comes amidst previous commitments by the Premier to re-evaluate MUN funding after his government brought the end of the 22-year tuition freeze. In 2021, the province announced it was phasing out $68.4 million from the yearly tuition offset grant over the course of five years. Since this move, tuition at Memorial has more than doubled for domestic students, and has doubled for international students.
In an email to the Muse, the premiers office said that “though tuition decisions lie with the university, the government will continue collaborating with Memorial’s leadership to ensure it remains highly accessible.”
In July of 2023 the provincial government announced up to $10 million in funding to the university to remove the Campus Renewal Fee for students.
In an email to the Muse, the premiers office said that “after meeting with the students’ union, the government covered the student campus renewal fee, saving each full-time undergraduate $500 and various amounts for graduate and part-time students, representing a $6.5 million investment.”
“This is a mess that you created, we’re done waiting. It’s been 500 days, we demand a meeting now.” Nicolas Keough, MUNSU Director of External Affairs (MUNSU)
Opposition parties weigh in
NLNDP leader Jim Dinn says that the Premier should meet with the student union.
“These young people are our future. If they’re burdened with debt, they’re not going to stick around in this province. If they’re unable to pay that debt back, they’ll go elsewhere. Premier, it’s time to meet with MUNSU to have meaningful discussions about this.”
These young people are our future. If they're burdened with debt, they're not going to stick around in this province. If they're unable to pay that debt back, they'll go elsewhere.
The PC Party NL have previously spoke on the issue. It says that “Under the Furey Liberals, tuition at Memorial and CNA has skyrocketed. Students shouldn’t have to choose between paying fees or buying textbooks. Tony Wakeham and the PCs are committed to making post-secondary education affordable.”
Under the Furey Liberals, tuition at @MemorialU and @CNA_News has skyrocketed. Students shouldn't have to choose between paying fees or buying textbooks. @TonyWakehamNL and the PCs are committed to making post-secondary education affordable. pic.twitter.com/9HewfR0Q4u
Students protested MUN’s investment in companies tied to Israel’s war on Gaza this past Friday in what organizers called a ‘die-in.’ Demonstrators laid on the floor of the University Centre food court and held pictures of children killed by Israeli forces.
Sadie Mees, an organizer with MUN Students for Palestine, said the protest aimed to “remind people that there is no back to school in Gaza.”
“There are no universities left. There are hundreds of thousands of students who are displaced. And our university has a role in that, and chose to keep their investments involved in the ongoing scholasticide in Palestine.”
Students protested MUN’s investment in companies tied to Israel’s war on Gaza this past Friday in what organizers called a ‘die-in.’
MUN Students for Palestine’s campaign for divestment began on May 10th with a similar ‘die-in’ protest on the steps of the UC. On May 21st, students erected an encampment called ‘Yazan’s Yard,’ named after a ten-year-old Palestinian boy with cerebral palsy who died of malnutrition and pneumonia during Israel’s invasion.
Following the encampment, student protesters began occupying the Arts and Administration building. The occupation was shut down by the university. On July 5th, police arrested three student protesters and charged them with petty trespassing. The charges have yet to be sworn into Provincial Court.
On the same night, the student encampment, Yazan’s Yard, was dismantled by campus enforcement.
Following the dismantling of the occupation and encampment, the Board of Regents met to decide on the issue of divestment.
In a statement published in the Gazette, the Board of Regents said that “the targeted attacks on educational institutions in Gaza represent an assault on the very essence of education and academic freedom. We realize the impacts this has not just in that region but across communities and the broader academic landscape.”
In the same statement, the Board announced it had decided not to divest, citing its “legal responsibility as a fiduciary for the pension plan and for university investments.”
MUNFA members are scheduled to meet this Friday to decide whether the faculty union will support divestment.
Despite some setbacks, organizers have since said they will continue to protest until the MUN administration and the Board of Regents change their tune on divestment.
MUNSU’s Nicolas Keough speaks at ‘die-in’ for MUN divestment from Israel’s war on Gaza. pic.twitter.com/8j8KFFS300
In a speech at last week’s food court die-in, MUNSU’s Nicolas Keough said that students have an “unwavering commitment to justice, dignity, and human rights for Palestinians.”
“We now demand our administration to divest from the death of Palestinians and complicity in Israel’s genocide.”
Spokesperson Chad Pelley said that MUN has no comment on the protest.
The fall semester is here, and student life is back in full swing. It’s easy to miss what’s happening on campus, but don’t worry, we got you covered. Here is what is on the go this month:
Thursday, September 5th
Meet MUNSU, the Loft (UC-3013), 10am-1pm: Get to know your student union representatives, learn about this semester’s initiatives, and find out how to get involved.
Food on the Move, the Loft (UC-3013), 11am-2pm: Food First NLbrings locally sourced veggies for purchase at affordable prices.
Library On the Go, the Loft (UC-3013), 11am-2pm: Looking for something to read? Get yourself a library card and a book on the spot with NL Public Libraries.
Super Smash Bros Tournament, the Loft (UC-3013), 7pm: Join Smash NL for a Melee and Ultimate tournie.
Trivia Night, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Compete for prizes in a battle of wits. Test your knowledge of pop culture, geography, music, and more!
Thrift Market, the Landing (UC-3015), 10am-3pm: MUN Hope is popping up a thrift store in support of the NL Eating Disorder Foundation
Meet and Greet, Arts and Admin (A-4004), 1pm: Interested in history? Join the MUN History Society for a meet and greet, and free pizza.
Die-In For Palestine, UC Food Court, 1pm: MUN Students 4 Palestine are holding their first action of the semester as part of their divestment campaign.
Anime Movie Night:Aldnoah.Zero and Eighty-Six, Science Building (SN-2109), 7:30: Anime Film Societypresents two features with scores by Hiroyuki Sawano.
Drag Night, The Breezeway, 8pm (19+): MUNSU presents a night of drag at the Breezeway featuring Gravy, Liezel Hues, and Claws.
Gravy, Liezel Hues and Claws. (MUNSU)
Saturday, September 7th
Fall Plant Sale, 306 Mount Scio Road, 9am-12pm: The Friends of the Memorial University Botanical Garden is hosting a sale of “proven perennials, heaths, heathers, rhododendrons, and shrubs,” located in the area opposite the main gate of the botanical gardens.
Sunday, September 8th
Hope Always Walk, Mundy Pond, 11am: JoinMUN Hope for the Hope Always Walk in support of the NL Eating Disorder Foundation.
Monday, September 9th
First Year Breakfast, 9am-11am, the Breezeway: MUNSU is offering free breakfast for first-year students while supplies last.
Meet the Muse, the Loft, 12pm-1pm: Join us to learn how to get involved with the Muse this semester!
Tuesday, September 10th
Advocacy Lunch and Learn, 12-2pm: Meet MUNSU’s Director of Advocacy and learn how to get involved with advocacy initiatives. Lunch will be provided while supplies last.
Grocery Shuttle, Global Learning Centre, 5pm-9pm: MUNSU’s free shuttle service to and from Sobeys on Kelsey Drive. Departs every 30 minutes.
Palestine Solidarity Panel, the Breezeway 5pm-7pm: Palestine Action YYTjoins MUNSU for a panel on Pro Palestinian activism.
Wednesday, September 11th
Clubs and Societies Fair, Rez Mezzanine 11am-1pm: There are over 100 clubs and societies on campus, find out what one piques your interest at this tabling event.
Open Mic Night Kick Off, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Sing karaoke, try out your stand-up, or just enjoy the show.
Thursday, September 12th
Art in the Arts:Visual Works On Display in the Nexus Centre,Science Building (SN 4022), 10am-4pm: Organized by Members of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Art in the Arts, is a 2-day exhibition of visual arts.
Roots and Craft, the Loft (UC-3013) 2pm-4pm: JoinMUN Black Students Association for bead making, leaf painting, and rock painting.
Games and Trivia Night, the Breezeway, 6pm-10pm: MUN Black Students Association is hosting a games and trivia night.
Ocean People Inspire, the Lantern, 6-9pm: The Ocean Frontier Institute presents a celebration of “the many ways oceans, people, and their inspirations come together.”
Movie Night, the Bruneau Centre (IIC-2001), 6pm: Join the MUN chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers for a movie night, drinks and snacks will be provided.
Super Smash Bros Tournament, the Loft (UC-3013), 7pm: Join Smash NL for a Melee and Ultimate tournie.
Friday, September 13th
Yoga Under the Whale, Core Science Whale Atrium, 7am: MUN Mindfulness Society and Modo Yoga St John’s are hosting an early morning free yoga session. BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat).
Art in the Arts:Visual Works On Display in the Nexus Centre,Science Building (SN 4022), 10am-4pm: Organized by Members of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Art in the Arts, is a 2-day exhibition of visual arts.
Art in the Arts: Art Discussion Informal Drop-in Session, Science Building (SN 4022), 1pm: Join Members of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences for a conversation about art as part of Art in the Arts, a 2-day exhibition of visual arts.
Campaigns Lunch and Learn, the Breezeway, 12-2pm: Meet MUNSU’s Director of Campaigns and find out how to get involved this semester. Lunch will be provided while supplies last.
Welcome Back Concert, 8pm, Breezeway (19+)MUNSU presents XIA 3, Boys Who Think, and The Other Side, live at the Breezeway.
Dr. Heidi Matthews: From genocide to unlawful occupation, Arts and Admin (A-1046), 2:30-4:00: MUN’s Political Science department brings guest speaker Dr. Heidi Matthews to speak about “key developments in international law respecting the Israel/Palestine conflict.”
Students and community members attend a march for Palestine on Water Street. (John Harris/The Muse)
Palestinian Movie Night: Jenin Jenin, MUN Education Building (ED 1043), 6pm: The Peace Council of St. John’s, and MUN Students 4 Palestine are collaborating on a movie night along with guest speaker Larry Wasslen, the president of the Peace Congress of Canada. UPDATE: the location has changed to A-1043.
Art in the Arts: An Evening of Literary Readings and Music, the Lantern (35 Barnes Road)7pm: Hosted by Members of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, this event is the finale of Art in the Arts, a 2-day exhibition of visual arts.
Anime Movie Night: Studio Ghibli Films, Science Building (SN-2109), 7:30pm: Join the Anime Film Society for a night of Studio Ghibli movies.
Saturday, September 14th
Bug Walk, MUN Botanical Gardens, 10am-12pm: Nature NL is hosting a walk of the Gardens with insect and spider experts Sean McCann and Catherine Scott.
Tennis Team Tryouts, Larch Park (66 Carpasian), 4-8pm ($5): Wanna be the next Serena? Try out for the MUN Tennis Team.
Sunday, September 15th
Campus Cleanup, Clocktower, 1pm: Join MUN Hope for a clean-up of the MUN campus.
Monday, September 16th
First Year Breakfast: Round 2, 9am-11am, the Breezeway: MUNSU is offering free breakfast for first-year students while supplies last.
CHMR Open House, CHMR Studio (2nd floor UC), 11am-2pm: Want to get involved in student radio? Come check out CHMR studios.
Cultural Fair, the Breezeway 12-4pm: International Student Resource Centre,Intersections, and MUN Students 4 Palestine are collaborating to showcase “cultural groups and societies we have here at MUN as well as vibrant performances, henna, games, food and fun!”
Grocery Shuttle, Global Learning Centre, 5pm-9pm: MUNSU’s free shuttle service to and from Sobeys on Kelsey Drive. Departs every 30 minutes.
Deantha Edmunds: An Inuk in Tune, Suncor Energy Hall, 12pm:The School of Music presents a lecture recital with Inuk soprano Deantha Edmunds, in which she “shares some of the music that has shaped her life and career” and “speak about her inspirations, her creation process and her journey.”
Calatheas Plant Sale Pop-Up, The Loft, 11am-2pm: Need some green in your apartment? Come by to shop for plants from Calatheas.
Hike and Bonfire, Meet at UC Bus Stop, 5pm: Need some nature in your life? Outdoor Adventure Society is hosting a hike and a bonfire.
Open Mic Night, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Sing karaoke, try out your stand-up, or just enjoy the show.
Thursday, September 19th
Deantha Edmunds Inuit Connections, 7:30, D.F. Cook Recital Hall ($24): The School of Music presents a concert of “contemporary and sacred classical music sung in Inuktitut and English, performed by Inuk soprano Deantha Edmunds.”
Trivia Night, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Compete for prizes in a battle of wits. Test your knowledge of pop culture, geography, music, and more!
Super Smash Bros Tournament, the Loft (UC-3013), 7pm: Join Smash NL for a Melee and Ultimate tournie.
Friday, September 20th
Meet MUNSU, the Loft (UC-3013), 10am-1pm: Get to know your student union representatives, learn about this semester’s initiatives, and find out how to get involved.
Tent Gathering, Juniper House, 11am-2pm: The Indigenous Student Resource Centre is holding a Tent Gathering to welcome the Memorial Community back to campus.
Food on the Move, the Loft (UC-3013), 11am-2pm: Food First NL brings locally sourced veggies for affordable prices.
Library On the Go, the Loft (UC-3013), 11am-2pm: Looking for something to read? Get yourself a library card and a book on the spot with NL Public Libraries.
Clubs and Society Fair, 3rd floor UC, 11am-2pm: There are over 100 clubs and societies on campus, find out what one piques your interest at this tabling event.
Climate Strike, Meet at Clocktower, 2-4pm: Fridays for Future is holding a protest on campus as part of a national climate strike.
Anime Movie Night: Anime About Manga, Science Building (SN-2109), 7:30pm: Join the Anime Film Society for a night of anime films based on manga.
Silent Disco, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): MUNSU brings back this popular night where you can dance with headphones synced up to your choice of live DJ.
Sunday, September 22nd
Churchill Square Cleanup, Shoppers, 1pm: Join MUN Hope for a clean-up of Churchill Square.
Tuesday, September 24th
Grocery Shuttle, Global Learning Centre, 5pm-9pm: MUNSU’s free shuttle service to and from Sobeys on Kelsey Drive. Departs every 30 minutes.
Wednesday, September 25th
Science of the Arts: Paint Night with Code, Geo Centre, 7-9pm, ($20): Canada Learning Code hosts a session to “learn fundamentals of computer programming, and use JavaScript and simple math to create beautiful generative art while being instructed and mentored by local industry experts!”
Open Mic Night, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Sing karaoke, try out your stand-up, or just enjoy the show.
Thursday, September 26th
Super Smash Bros Tournament, the Loft (UC-3013), 7pm: Join Smash NL for a Melee and Ultimate tournie.
Trivia Night, the Breezeway, 8pm (19+): Compete for prizes in a battle of wits. Test your knowledge of pop culture, geography, music, and more!
Friday, September 27th
Anime Movie Night: Members Choice, Science Building (SN-2109), 7:30pm: Join the Anime Film Society for a night of films picked by it’ members.
Saturday, September 28th
March for Palestine, Harbourside Park, 2pm: MUN Students for Palestine and Palestine Action YYT are holding a march to “call for a permanent ceasefire, a two-way arms embargo on Israel, and Memorial University’s divestment from companies complicit in apartheid and genocide.” UPDATE: Event is postponed to October 5th.
Sunday, September 29th
Kelsey Drive Cleanup, Meet by Dollarama, 1pm: Join MUN Hope for a clean-up of Kelsey Drive.
What’s up in the Sky in October?, Geo Centre, 1-4pm ($5): The Johnson Geo Centre presents a session to “learn about the celestial bodies visible at different points of the season.”
To get regular updates of events on campus, sign up for The Students’ Newsletter.
This past week, the Muse reached out to candidates from all parties running in the rapidly approaching Waterford Valley By-Election. Specifically, we inquired about each party’s policies on five areas particularly important to students and young people.
In the public interest, we’ve included their responses in full for your own consideration.
Below, we’ve attached the NL Liberal Party response from their Waterford Valley candidate, Jamie Korab, regarding their platform in the by-election on Thursday, August 22nd.
Unpaid work terms
Many work terms in undergraduate programs including social work, nursing, and education are unpaid. Many students would like to this change.What improvements to work terms, coops, and internships would you support, if any?
“Work terms are an essential part of the educational experience at Memorial University and I recognize that students would like to see improvements in how they are currently offered. I would work with all stakeholders on this to determine the best path forward to support students in some of our most in-demand career paths such as Nursing, Education, and Social Work. Those discussions would include students, Memorial University faculty, staff, and leadership, various government departments involved, and the companies and organizations offering students these valuable learning opportunities.”
Cost of living
The cost of living is increasing with inflation, and many students are facing challenges in being able to support themselves. Foodbanks are struggling to support rising numbers of young people. What policies do you support to help students with the rising cost of living?
“The Furey Government has continued to put money directly back into the pockets of students, including offsetting the student campus renewal fee charged by Memorial University. This investment saves full-time students approximately $500 per year, and came from discussions with MUNSU.”
“Additionally, the Furey Government has provided more than $500 million to support Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with the high cost of living. This includes a range of measures like maintaining the 50% reduction in the provincial gas tax saving you 8.05 cents per litre at the pumps, and a 15% increase in the low income supplement. Additionally, the Furey Government has implemented the Poverty Reduction Plan, supports parents and families with more than 10,000 child care spaces at $10-a-day, and makes investments to help improve access to healthy, local food.”
Housing
Many students are concerned about the lack of affordable housing in St. John’s, especially with the Fall semester approaching some fear a housing crunch as new students arrive. What measures do you support to assist with the issue of affordable housing?
“The Furey Government has made significant efforts to improve access to affordable, provincial government housing and market housing that is more affordable. The Five-Point Plan announced last fall included incentives such as the Secondary and Basement Suite Incentive, to stimulate private sector development and stabilize housing prices. Additionally, 91 housing projects across the province were announced in November and are supported by the Affordable Rental Housing Program with more than $80 million, and will result in about 900 affordable rental homes.”
Tuition rates
Many students are concerned about the impact of lifting the tuition freeze and its contribution to increased expenses in a cost-of-living crisis. What is your stance on the current cost of education at MUN, would you prefer to see it changed, and if so, how?
“The Furey Government maintains its commitment to ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador continues to offer one of the most affordable post-secondary education systems in Canada. In response to Memorial University’s lifting of the tuition freeze, the Furey Government introduced the Tuition Relief Grant Program to support low and middle-income students. This needs-based grant provides up to a maximum of $3,450 per academic year ($345 per course). This is in addition to the existing student financial assistance programs and is one of the most generous student financial assistance programs in Canada. It was supported with $23 million allocated in Budget 2024. The Furey Government has also made investments to increase the number of seats in programs that will help train Newfoundlanders and Labradors to fill in-demand jobs, such as in nursing and medicine.”
“In addition, in Budget 2024, the Provincial Government invested:
● $298 million to Memorial University for its core operating grant, as well as more than
● $70 million for the Faculty of Medicine, and the continuation of three satellite sites for the Faculty of Nursing.
● More than $170 million for workers to acquire the training and skills to secure good jobs so employers can meet their changing demands for skilled labour.
● $71 million to College of the North Atlantic for its core operating grant.
● Up to $6.5 million to Memorial University to offset students’ campus renewal fee and support accessible and affordable post- secondary education.”
Differential fees
International students currently pay significantly more than domestic and provincial students; MUN estimates that many undergraduate students pay between $20,000 and $25,000 per year in fees and tuition to the university. Do you support the current rates, or would you prefer to see them changed and if so, to what level?
“The Furey Government welcomes international students and recognizes the value they bring to our province. According to Statistics Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador’s international undergraduate and graduate tuition fees are currently the lowest in the country. The Furey Government recognizes the importance of International Students within our province and will continue to support them through investments which directly benefit all students, such as the offset of the students’ campus renewal fee.”
Editors Note: Statistics Canadaplaces NL as the least costly province for international students at an average cost of $17,477. This figure includes students who still pay the international rate before the tuition hike. The tuition rate for new international students is $21,630.
This past week, the Muse reached out to candidates from all parties running in the rapidly approaching Waterford Valley By-Election. Specifically, we inquired about each party’s policies on five areas particularly important to students and young people.
In the public interest, we’ve included their responses in full for your own consideration.
Below, we’ve attached the NL New Democratic Party response from the Waterford Valley candidate, Nicole Boland, regarding their platform in the by-election on Thursday, August 22nd.
Unpaid work terms
Many work terms in undergraduate programs including social work, nursing, and education are unpaid. Many students would like to this change.What improvements to work terms, coops, and internships would you support, if any?
“The NDP is a party of workers. We were founded in 1961 as a merger of socialist and social democratic movements with organized labour, to be their voice in Parliament. That’s why we are just as dismayed as you are by the fact that many students at Memorial are not paid for the services they provide during work terms.”
“To us, work is work, and it adds value to the organization that benefits from student labour. That’s why we would get rid of unpaid work terms, and ensure that students get a fair wage for the work they do.”
Cost of living
The cost of living is increasing with inflation, and many students are facing challenges in being able to support themselves. Foodbanks are struggling to support rising numbers of young people. What policies do you support to help students with the rising cost of living?
“We have a number of policies that would help students and others living on tight budgets with the rising cost of living. These include:
Removing the provincial portion of HST from home heating;
Ensuring that students receive payment for work terms;
Raising the minimum wage to $20/hour over four years and tying further increases to inflation thereafter;
Bringing in a “New Deal for Precarious Workers,” to make sure that temporary contract staff, gig workers, freelancers, and app-based employees are paid fairly and get the same protections as all other workers; and
Introducing real pay equity and pay transparency legislation, so that women, genderdiverse people, and racialized individuals are paid the full value of their work in both the public and private sectors.”
Housing
Many students are concerned about the lack of affordable housing in St. John’s, especially with the Fall semester approaching, when new students will arrive and some fear about a housing crunch. What measures do you support to assist with the issue of affordable housing?
“Just this week, we released our platform on this issue, called “Our First Steps to Solving the Housing Crisis.” Its main planks are:
Designing and properly funding a ‘housing first’ policy that actually works for those experiencing homelessness, existing social housing tenants with complex needs, and the community as a whole;
Expanding the funding made available through the revived the First-Time Homebuyer Program, to help more young families and others achieve stability and security;
Amending the Residential Tenancies Act to prohibit landlords from charging application or holding fees to prospective tenants;
Reining in the Real Estate Income Trusts (REITs) and unscrupulous landlords by becoming the last jurisdiction in Canada to ban no-fault evictions, setting annual limits to rent increases, and tightening loopholes against “renovictions” and the conversion of apartments into condos;
Self-financing new public housing builds through the NLHC that will offer affordable rents substantially below market rates, without adding to the debt; and
Helping scale up the supply of affordable housing units by creating a land bank consisting of properties currently owned by the province, as well as Crown Land, for exclusive use by municipalities, community organizations, co-operatives and co-housing projects.”
Tuition
Many students are concerned about the impact of lifting the tuition freeze and its contribution to increased expenses in a cost-of-living crisis. What is your stance on the current cost of education at MUN, would you prefer to see it changed, and if so, how?
“Our party has a long-standing policy supporting free post-secondary education. We realize that all of society gets a compound benefit when the population is highly educated, not just the student attending university or trade school. That’s why we would scrap the tuition hikes brought about by the Furey Liberals and then freeze rates, as a first step towards making postsecondary education free.”
Differential fees
International students currently pay significantly more than domestic and provincial students; MUN estimates that many undergraduate students pay between $20,000 and $25,000 per year in fees and tuition to the university. Do you support the current rates, or would you prefer to see them changed and if so, to what level?
“I’m not sure that many people appreciate the role of Memorial University and the College of the North Atlantic in attracting talented people from around the world and encouraging them to plant roots here. It’s really the unsung hero of our efforts to boost immigration. When international tuition rises, we become less competitive with other universities across Canada in attracting students form other countries. Our party does not have a detailed policy on this matter, but if we want to treat international students fairly and encourage them to stay here, we would certainly have to freeze their tuition rates along with those of Canadian and provincial students.”
This past week, the Muse reached out to candidates from all parties running in the rapidly approaching Waterford Valley By-Election. Specifically, we inquired about each party’s policies on five areas particularly important to students and young people.
In the public interest, we’ve included their responses to our questionnaires in full for your consideration.
Below, we’ve attached the NL Progressive Conservative Party response from a spokesperson outlining their candidate’s platform in the by-election on Thursday, August 22nd.
Unpaid work terms
Many work terms in undergraduate programs including nursing, social work, and education are unpaid. Many students would like to see a change in the way work terms are offered.What improvements to work terms, co-ops, and internships would you support, if any?
“The Progressive Conservative Party of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes that our province’s dynamic path to growth relies on our students’ and graduates’ brilliance, strength and imagination.”
“A Wakeham government will support students and graduates as they build a future in this province by providing paid work terms, co-op placements, and internships for students who complete their placement where the provincial government is the employer or where public funds are used to fund the payroll of employees (as is the case in the health care and education systems). It is fundamentally wrong that students, such as nursing students, are expected to work without getting paid.”
Cost of living
The cost of living is increasing with inflation, and many students are facing challenges in being able to support themselves. Foodbanks are struggling to support rising numbers of young people. What policies do you support to help students with the rising cost of living?
“Postsecondary Students and recent graduates should be focused on building their future and the future of this province, not on how they will pay for tuition, rent, or food.”
“The Liberals have allowed the cost of living in this province to rise more than the national average, leaving people, including students, behind. Many people in Newfoundland and Labrador are struggling to survive soaring food costs, skyrocketing housing costs, gas prices through the roof, and a Liberal government carbon tax on top of all their other taxes and fees.”
“A Wakeham government, committed to the people, will take immediate and decisive action to lower your cost of living by:
Eliminating the Sugar Tax.
Reviewing all taxes and fees charged to the people and businesses of the province with the goal of tax and fee reduction. A Wakeham government will remove all unnecessary fees.
Will fight against the Liberal Carbon Tax. The Liberal Carbon Tax hits us harder because of how far goods have to travel to get here and how much we need to rely on fuel to get around this large province. At every opportunity, a Wakeham government will stand up to Ottawa and work with political allies to have the Carbon Tax completely removed.
Address the food affordability issue head-on by targeting grocers and driving local food production with a bold agricultural strategy.”
Housing
Many students are concerned about the lack of affordable housing in St. John’s, especially with the Fall semester approaching some fear a housing crunch as new students arrive. What measures do you support to assist with the issue of affordable housing?
“Too many people in Newfoundland and Labrador need help finding a suitable home within their budget. This is a cost-of-living issue. It impacts our population’s ability to grow and our local businesses’ ability to thrive. Without an adequate housing supply, people are left with limited options; homelessness will continue to increase. Many young people are living with their parents or multiple roommates while dreaming of a home of their own. Students have been asked to postpone their education because of the lack of places to live, and MUN staff have been encouraged to take in boarders.”
“We believe everyone needs a home – not just a roof over their head but a home.”
“A Wakeham government will keep on top of changing needs, including population growth and newcomer arrivals, and plan immediately to ensure the housing supply is adequate. We will work with stakeholders, including student representatives, to monitor population and housing trends and take action early to prevent the housing crisis from occurring years into the future.”
“We will introduce new legislation to govern rental accommodations in this province. This legislation must address the needs of both responsible renters and diligent landlords. It must encourage landlords to keep rates stable and predictable while keeping their property safe and available to renters.”
“We will encourage homeowners to invest in creating affordable rental units in their own homes through targeted incentives.”
“We will reduce the red tape surrounding new home builds and redevelopment. The path of home construction and renovation is complex. We all must work together to make it easier for people to build new, safe, and affordable homes. We will encourage new builds to include affordable rental units.”
“We will work with the NL Association of Realtors to promote home ownership among individuals who are currently renting but can qualify for a mortgage. We will implement a homeownership tax credit for those who have previously rented, making more rental units available to students.”
Many students are concerned about the impact of lifting the tuition freeze and its contribution to increased expenses in a cost-of-living crisis. What is your stance on the current cost of education at MUN, would you prefer to see it changed, and if so, how?
“Tuition at Memorial University and CNA has skyrocketed under the Liberal watch. Students shouldn’t have to worry about how to pay their tuition fees or be forced to go without purchasing textbooks.”
“We believe that a well-rounded education system will result in a well-rounded population with graduates fully prepared to help expand the province’s economy, rejuvenate rural Newfoundland and Labrador, and bring new industries into our province. We also realize that tuition rates need to be competitive among other Canadian universities so that students across the Country choose Memorial as their place of study and hopefully choose our province as their home post-graduation.”
“The Leader of the Progressive Conversative Party, Tony Wakeham, is committed to making post-secondary education affordable. Upon being elected as Premier, he will immediately launch a review of the tuition and other related fees at Memorial University with the goal of making education more affordable. This will also include reviewing the provincial student loans and grant programs. Students, recent graduates, and prospective students will be engaged in this process.”
“This review will also include holding the University to account for the funding it receives, so it does not continue to finance administrative bloat instead of investing in students and infrastructure. The funding that Memorial University receives must be first used for student education.”
“Mr. Wakeham has also spoken publicly about the need to give money back to graduates who continue to live in this province after-graduation.”
International students currently pay significantly more than domestic and provincial students; MUN estimates that many undergraduate students pay between $20,000 and $25,000 per year in fees and tuition to the university. Do you support the current rates, or would you prefer to see them changed and if so, to what level?
“Tuition at Memorial University and CNA has skyrocketed under the Liberal watch. Students shouldn’t have to worry about how to pay their tuition fees or be forced to go without purchasing textbooks.”
“Many international students who choose Memorial University as their post-secondary education choose to continue to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador for many years after graduation. Memorial University’s international students are important to our province’s population growth, immigration, and creating a strong economy.”
“As noted in the previous question. the Leader of the Progressive Conversative Party, Tony Wakeham, is committed to making post-secondary education affordable. Upon being elected as Premier, he will immediately launch a review of the tuition and other related fees at Memorial University with the goal of making education more affordable.”
“This review will also consider the experience of international students and ensure that international tuition at Memorial is affordable so that students from all over the world choose to study, live, and hopefully stay in our province.”
Glenn Barnes has resigned as Chair of the Board of Regents. A review by the Board has determined Barnes violated its Code of Conduct. In June, Barnes forwarded a pro-Palestinian email from alumna Becky Winsor to her father. The email was part of a MUN Students for Palestine campaign for MUN to divest from companies involved in Israel’s war on Gaza.
In an email to Winsor’s father, Barnes said that he is “telling parents that I know just what their kids are doing. Theirs is not the only viewpoint but this group thinks they are correct and that MUN ought to be in lock step with them. They need to grow up.“
Winsor said she is glad to see “the Board took it seriously when they did the code of conduct review.”
“Students and community members are calling for divestment within the university … they feel their alma mater should not be participating in funding weapons for Israel,” said MUN alumna Becky Winsor. (Submitted)
She hopes the situation is a learning opportunity for Barnes and the University as a whole on how it engages with students and community members who come forward with concerns.
“I want to see the university move forward in a more positive and open way so that people can feel like they can approach people from the Board of Regents or administrators, if they have legitimate concerns,” said Winsor.
“Whether it relates to the genocide in Gaza or whether it relates to tuition fees … I would like to see a more open approach and people not having to fear whether someone’s gonna tell on them.”
Winsor said she was inspired to write to the Board of Regents after months of seeing the bombardment of Gaza on social media. Winsor said the underlying issue that sparked her email still needs to be addressed.
“Students and community members are calling for divestment within the university… they feel their alma mater should not be participating in funding weapons for Israel.“
“As a mom myself, I just keep thinking about these children that are losing parents, that are being murdered themselves.“
Education Minister accepts resignation
Education Minister Krista Lynn Howell said that the government “will work expeditiously to have a new chair appointed to the Board of Regents.”
Vice-Chair of the Board of Regents Anik Rahman, an alumni representative, will serve as acting chair until a new one is appointed by the lieutenant-governor in council.
MUNSU said via X that it is “pleased to see that Former Chair Glenn Barnes has resigned from the Board of Regents. It is unacceptable that our university administration has repeatedly ignored student concerns, broken confidentiality, and been dismissive and disrespectful when faced with criticism.“
Glenn Barnes has yet to respond to request for comment.
Glenn Barnes faces calls from MUNSU and the Progressive Conservatives for him to step aside as chair of the Board of Regents. In June, Barnes forwarded a pro-Palestinian email from alumna Becky Winsor to her father. The email was part of a campaign by MUN Students for Palestine for divestment from companies tied to Israel’s war on Gaza. A MUN privacy investigation determined this was a violation of her privacy.
In an email to Winsor’s father, Barnes said he is “telling parents that I know just what their kids are doing. Theirs is not the only viewpoint but this group thinks they are correct and that MUN ought to be in lock step with them. They need to grow up.“
The Board of Regents is conducting a review to determine whether Barnes violated their code of conduct. Members are expected to convene soon to decide how to proceed. Possible outcomes outlined in the code include a warning, a temporary suspension, or termination.
The specific sections of the code that could be relevant to the review are confidentiality and respect. It says that “Members are expected to respect the confidentiality of any materials provided as part of their duties as a Member of the Board.”
The code also states that “Members will recognize the diverse views, opinions, and experiences of Members and the University Community and look to build and support a culture free of harassment, discrimination, and intimidation.”
Both PCs and MUNSU call for Barnes’ removal
PC Education critic Paul Dinn released a statement calling for the removal of Barnes. Dinn said this incident “is both insulting and condescending to Ms. Winsor and her father, and contrary to board code of conduct.”
“It demonstrates a severe lack of judgement and professionalism. Unfortunately, MUN continues to make headlines for all the wrong reasons, and the Chair of the Board of Regents must be held accountable.”
MUNSU also called for Barnes’ removal. In a statement, it said that it is “very clear to the student body that Barnes must be immediately removed in order to prevent further reputational harm to the university, as well as harm to students impacted by the humanitarian crisis in Palestine.”
NDP Leader Jim Dinn said he’s taking the lead from students. “At the very least Mr. Barnes owes an apology,” said Dinn. According to Dinn, Barnes’s actions showed a lack of respect for the MUN community.
Liberal Education Minister Krista Lynn Howell said that “the Provincial Government is aware of the privacy breach” and that “the Department of Education will await the outcome of the Board of Regent’s processes.“
MUNFA President Josh Lepawsky says, ‘this particular instance is just yet another sort of blow to the university’s reputation.’ (The Gazette)
MUNFA called on Barnes to step down while the review is ongoing. President Josh Lepawsky said that “everyone is entitled to due process, but it simply makes sense that while the process is underway, that the person being investigated for whatever reason should step aside from the case.”
He continued, stating the situation “suggests a very severe lack of judgement on the part of the chair and an inability to separate the chair’s personal feelings from the mandate that he’s entrusted with, which is to oversee the best interests of the university as a whole.”
At the time of publication, Glenn Barnes has not responded to requests for comment, but in a previous statement provided by Media Relations Manager Chad Pelley, he said that he was “committed to participating in the investigative process and will not be speaking publicly on this matter.”
