Wildrose leader Jean disagrees with PC boss Kenney on gay straight alliances

Jean says he disagrees with Kenney, who says schools should tell parents when their child joins a gay-straight alliance if it’s in the child’s best interest. (Photo: Brian Jean/ Facebook)

EDMONTON –Alberta Wildrose Leader Brian Jean is separating himself from Progressive Conservative Leader Jason Kenney when it comes to social clubs for gay students in schools.

Jean says he disagrees with Kenney, who says schools should tell parents when their child joins a gay-straight alliance if it’s in the child’s best interest.

Jean says parents are already notified if sexuality issues are taught, but says a gay-straight alliance should be left as a peer group for students.

The clubs are viewed as critical social networks for gay and straight students to discuss issues, help gay students counter bullying or come to terms with their sexuality.

Kenney has said he doesn’t want out gay students.

But critics say Kenney’s plan effectively does just that by outing students before they are ready –a danger some warn could lead to family ostracism or even suicide.