They NEED to replace your mask, not questioning their financial blah blah at all. This is not acceptable in my opinion. I see a leaking mask as a safety issue in this case because the more task loaded a new diver is, the better the odds that they aren't paying attention to important tasks. ( not controlling bouancy, looking at gauges, keeping an eye on buddy) If you're not comfortable in your gear, it is a set up for disaster. They are basically setting you up for more issues than you really need as a new ow diver.
You should spend as much time in the pool as you need to get the basic skills down. I don't mean hey look I can flood my mask and clear it, I mean I can take my mask off and drop it, pick it up, put it on and clear it. The LDS should afford you all the time you need to get comfortable with ALL OF YOUR SKILLS !!!!
If they don't replace your mask absolutly for free, I'd start the search for a new lds. I would be weary of being dive buddy's with anyone who put finances over safety.
You should spend as much time in the pool as you need to get the basic skills down. I don't mean hey look I can flood my mask and clear it, I mean I can take my mask off and drop it, pick it up, put it on and clear it. The LDS should afford you all the time you need to get comfortable with ALL OF YOUR SKILLS !!!!
If they don't replace your mask absolutly for free, I'd start the search for a new lds. I would be weary of being dive buddy's with anyone who put finances over safety.