The Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Education and MPP for Don Valley West hosted a media reception in her constituency office in Toronto on November 24.
Representatives from various community and ethnic newspapers, magazines, TV and radio networks were in attendance, i.e. Pakistani, South Asian, Filipino, Arabic, Iranian, Afghani, Finnish, Hispanic, Estonian, Tamil, Gujarati, Russian, Chinese, Ethiopian and the Caribbean media organizations.
Minister Wynne spoke about the McGuinty government’s accomplishments over the past four years and of their plans, particularly in improving the education system in the province of Ontario.
Although the reception is more of a get-to-know and get-together for all attendees, Minister Wynne with her very welcoming approach to the audience was asked questions, in which some are not even related to her ministry. However, with her brimming smile and wit, Minister Wynne did not hesitate to respond intellectually on questions like the new policy issued by the government related to Provincial Tax (PST), in which all community newspapers must now pay accordingly. This was clarified and although out of her jurisdiction, the message was taken.
Other significant topics discussed include the issue on foreign trained professionals, post-secondary education fees, black-focused schools, bullying, and many others. It was a fruitful reception and Minister Wynne concluded the event by emphasizing the significance of all community and ethnic media organizations in conveying the right message to the people. She also made mention her desire and willingness to work closely with these organizations, which will no doubt be mutually beneficial in building a solid bridge of communication within the community. |
