Ottawa, February 2, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Linguistic duality at the heart of our identity: Commissioner expects concrete results
Dr. Dyane Adam, the Commissioner of Official Languages, reacted to the Throne Speech that opened the new session of Parliament. The Commissioner congratulates the federal government for having reaffirmed that linguistic duality is at the heart of our country's identity and that it is our image in the world. However, the Commissioner regrets the lack of a concrete commitment to implement the Action Plan for the Official Languages, which was announced in March 2003.
"In this transitional context of changing roles and administrative structures, I would have preferred a firmer commitment to the Action Plan to guide the government," said Dr. Adam. "We are still left wondering what the new Prime Minister's particular contribution will be to the official languages portfolio. One thing is certain. I will be expecting concrete results from this government."
The investments made under the Action Plan for the Official Languages will make it possible to reach federal-provincial agreements in priority areas for the official language communities, such as health, education and access to justice. The Canada-community agreements will also contribute to the development and vitality of these communities. Finally, money will be invested in second-language instruction, which will help to attain one of the Action Plan's objectives, which is to double the number of bilingual young Canadians by 2013.
Despite the importance of the Action Plan, the Commissioner does not see it as a panacea and feels that the new government will have to demonstrate continued leadership to keep the official languages issue firmly on track. One of the main priorities must be a public service that is exemplary in terms of the official languages. This implies a respect for every individual's rights in terms of service delivery and language of work.
Excerpts from previous Throne Speeches on official languages
SPEECH FROM THE THRONE, FEBRUARY 2, 2004
Linguistic duality is at the heart of our identity. It is our image in the world. It opens doors for us. The Government will nurture this asset, which benefits all Canadians. It will ensure that minority language communities have the tools that enable their members to fully contribute to the development of Canadian society.
SPEECH FROM THE THRONE, SEPTEMBER 30, 2002
Linguistic duality is at the heart of our collective identity. The government will implement an action plan on official languages that will focus on minority-language and second-language education, including the goal of doubling within ten years the number of high school graduates with a working knowledge of both English and French. It will support the development of minority English- and French-speaking communities, and expand access to services in their language in areas such as health. It will enhance the use of our two official languages in the federal public service, both in the workplace and when communicating with Canadians.
SPEECH FROM THE THRONE - JANUARY 30, 2001
Canada's linguistic duality is fundamental to our Canadian identity and is a key element of our vibrant society. The protection and promotion of our two official languages is a priority of the Government from coast to coast. The Government reaffirms its commitment to support sustainable official language minority communities and a strong French culture and language. And it will mobilize its efforts to ensure that all Canadians can interact with the Government of Canada in either official language.
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