counterSpin coming to campus

By Ruth Davenport

University of Calgary students will have a chance to wave their fists and yell at provincial election candidates next week.

The acclaimed CBC debate program counterSpin, hosted by Avi Lewis, will film a series of debates on the U of C campus on Mon., March 5 and Tues., March 6. Two debates will be hosted each night, one to be broadcast live and the other taped to air later.

The issues to be debated each night will be Energy deregulation (live) and Ralph Klein’s record on Monday, and Bill 11 (live) and Western alienation on Tuesday.

The Calgary shows are intended to provide Calgary voters with an opportunity to question candidates on current issues. Debate for the two live shows will begin in the audience, and once established, will include input from a panel of political candidates.

"We are excited [about] counterSpin’s [coverage of] the Alberta elections," said Students’ Union Vice-president External Duncan Wojtaszek. "I strongly encourage students to come out. This is a chance to voice their concerns and show the public that students do care about Alberta politics and its impact on student life."

The episodes of counterSpin will air on CBC Newsworld from Mon., March 5 to Thurs., March 8 every night at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Individuals interested in attending the debates should call 521-6001 to reserve seating.