City of Ottawa Bilingualism Policy
Role of the Commissioner of Official Languages with regard to Canadians for Language Fairness v. the City of Ottawa
On October 5, 2004, Canadians for Language Fairness filed a notice of application in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice challenging the legality and constitutionality of a City of Ottawa bylaw. The municipal bylaw in question provides that residents of Ottawa have the right to communicate with the City of Ottawa, and to receive services from the City, in their preferred official language, in accordance with the City’s Official Languages Policy.
The Commissioner stands behind the City of Ottawa on this matter. Her position, which will be laid out in an affidavit, will be predicated on the principle that it is important that the capital of a bilingual country have a policy that sets out its bilingual character and guarantees the provision of services in both official languages.
The Commissioner is charged with ensuring full compliance with the objectives of the Official Languages Act. In order to fulfill this aspect of her mandate, the Commissioner must concern herself with all matters that deal with advancing the equality of status and use of English and French in Canadian society.
To obtain a copy of the exhibits to the affidavit or for further information, please call 1 877 996-6368.
