Ottawa, November 23, 2005
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Adoption of Bill S-3: A Historic Day for Official Language Communities
The Commissioner of Official Languages, Dr. Dyane Adam, voiced delight over yesterday’s adoption of Bill S-3. The Bill, put forth by the Honourable Jean-Robert Gauthier, clarifies the government’s obligations regarding the development of official language communities.
“These changes to the Act are a historic step in the pursuit of equality for English and French in Canadian society. The development of official language communities and the promotion of linguistic duality have long been the weak link in the Official Languages Act. From now on, all federal institutions will have to take positive measures in order to meet those objectives.”
Since coming into office, Dr. Adam has recommended that the government clarify the legal scope of its commitment to the development of official language communities. “Too often, the needs and special interests of these communities have been lost in the wake of government initiatives. Parliamentarians have shown strong leadership in adopting this Bill. Now it is the government’s turn to take action and make good on its commitment.”
“The richness of a democracy is measured, to a large degree, by its treatment of minorities,” said the Commissioner. “By accepting its responsibilities concerning official language communities, Canada is reinforcing its reputation as a human rights leader on the world stage,” she added. “Moreover, this improvement to the Act is the result of a sustained collaboration between parliamentarians, government officials, and representatives of official language communities.”
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For more information, please contact:
Robin Cantin
Manager, Media Relations
Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages
Telephone: 613-995-0374
Toll-free: 1-877-996-6368
