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"The Government of Quebec will no longer tolerate the intimidation or the violence", said Quebec Premier Jean Charest as he insisted that student associations should exhibit some social respect.  Those student associations claim it is not their place to condemn the violent actions of their members who are protesting the provincial government's five-year plan to raise tuition fees by 75%.

The purpose, to raise the percentage that university and college students in the province pay for their heavily subsidized education, from the current 12% to an eventual 17%.  He pointed out that in the 1960s students financed 25% of their studies.  The imposition over that five-year period of an increase amounting to 75% will still not bring students to the 1960 self-support level.

"Quebec's francophones make up 2% of North America's population, so we absolutely have to have institutions that are world-class and they need to be properly financed", Premier Charest said, addressing Liberal supporters at a party brunch fundraiser in Gatineau.  Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the high school where Mr. Charest was scheduled to speak.

The demonstrators booed people as they entered the school's front doors.  The boos turned to loud jeers when they were informed that Premier Charest had already entered, through a back door.  Gatineau police managed the crowd, while Surete du Quebec officers acted as security for the premier.  So much for law and order in a democracy, and respect for elected lawmakers.

"Sit down with us and have a respectful discussion on the basis of the same values and with the goal to allow each student to study, to earn their diploma", Premier Charest invited.  Quebec Education Minister Line Beauchamp is prepared to discuss governance of universities with student groups on April 16.  Giving advance notice that the increase in tuition fees will be non-negotiable.

A group of 18 prominent Quebecers produced a statement addressed to the government urging it to meet with student leaders to produce an end to the protests.  The government, claimed the group, needs to be more receptive to speaking with the students.

"It is now high time to open that door.  That is why today we launch this solemn appeal to all parties involved to find a way out of what is increasingly becoming a political and social dead end."

Everyone, Premier Charest said, has a right to study.  And the protesters must be aware they should respect the law.  "Our position doesn't prevent us from listening or from doing better but what we're proposing is fair, what we're proposing is right."