Members of this House wil! recall that in the Throne
Speech of last October, the government reaffirmed its commitment
to supporting, with the provinces, a system of post-secondary
education based on excellence and equality of opportunity. At
that time, we proposed that a national forum on post-secondary
education be convened to provide the opportunity for a full
discussion of the challenges and opportunities facing our

colleges and universities as we approach the 21st century.

Following the speech from the Throne, | undertook
extensive consultations. In particular, | met individually with

most provincial ministers responsible for post-secondary

 

education and, on February 2, | met with the full Council of @

Ministers of Education.

Everywhere | went | discovered widespread support for
the Forum, and | was particularly pleased that the Counci! of
Ministers of Education agreed to co-sponsor the event. | have
also received numerous letters of support for the Forum and

expressions of interest from individuals and groups.

 

RY