Letter
Taking issue with the USSU

April 24, 2009

I’m writing in regards to the article “Meet the incoming USSU president” in the April 9, 2009 issue. He had made a few comments on why student voter turnout is down. One reason that it may be down is because the little that the USSU actually does is directed mostly towards Arts and Science students. The only thing that I feel the USSU has got me in my 5 years as a student is an increase in fees every year towards things that I will not benefit from (Place Riel, UPass, USSU members enjoying discounted food at Louis’, the Sheaf), and a nice feeling of socialism.

A tuition freeze was an unrealistic approach as we now see people getting upset that tuition is going to increase significantly. Of course tuition is going to increase with support staff going on strike, and the increase cost of living, however, I would rather be paying for my education than fees that go towards supporting USSU students who basically just want something good to put on their resumes.

As for Louis’, it does have the potential to be a great place as it is aesthetically pleasing, and it is huge; however, it will never be popular for people who are not already on campus because parking is terrible. There is nowhere to park, and to go there at 6 pm to still pay at a meter until 10 pm, or to park in the lot where you’ll still be charged $1.50/hour all night if you leave your vehicle behind, is not conducive to operating a drinking establishment.

It is frustrating to get to Louis’ as access from College Drive is limited and inconvenient, especially now with the new bus route. Louis’ becoming a popular campus bar like The Owl in Regina is unrealistic until something is done about parking. It will never be more than a lunch spot for students and a hangout place for students in residence until there are major infrastructure changes.

Mary Haas