ANTIGONISH, N.S. – The Green Party is promising to ease student debt.

During a stop Thursday at St. F. X. University in Antigonish, N.S., party leader Elizabeth May pledged to forgive 50 per cent of a student loan for those who complete a degree or certificate program at a university or college.

May is also promising to boost financial support for students through a national student loan and bursary program.

May says Canadian young people deserve a quality education that doesn't leave them with a "debt sentence.

May is also promising to increase federal transfer payments to the provinces for post-secondary institutions.

As well, the Green Party will target research grants to institutions that support new technologies in renewable energy, smart growth and energy conservation. (CJFX)