Debate continues in Saskatchewan over funding for education of Syrian refugees

REGINA—Saskatchewan’s education minister says talks are underway with the federal government about funding that will help school divisions dealing with Syrian refugees entering the system.

The Regina Public School board told reporters Tuesday resources are being stretched thin because of the refugees when it comes to English as an additional language programs.

That declaration prompted the provincial NDP to demand the government provide more funding with deputy leader Trent Wotherspoon suggesting the Saskatchewan Party is ignoring the needs of students.

Education Minister Don Morgan says the government has been in talks with school divisions in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw about what they will need, and they are waiting for numbers.

He says once they get the numbers, they will talk to the federal government to see what can be covered, though he admits it might not happen this school year.

Morgan adds the province has not cut spending on English as an additional language programs as the NDP suggests and says the comments from Wotherspoon on this matter are just wrong.