French-language Services Act Receives Praise

Canada's Commissioner of Official Languages, in her capacity as Canada's linguistic ombudsman, has given Nova Scotia full marks for introducing French language legislation and has promised to help the province move toward expanded French-language services.

Commissioner Dyane Adam met with Premier John Hamm and Acadian Affairs Minister Chris d'Entremont in Halifax on Wednesday, Nov. 24, to discuss how they can work together to implement Bill 111, the French-language Services Act in Nova Scotia.

"The introduction of Bill 111 was an important step and I'm glad to have the support of the Official Languages Commissioner as we develop plans for French-language service," said Premier Hamm.

The government of Canada has a specific mandate under the Official Languages Act to support provincial governments in providing services in both French and English. The role of the Office of the Commissioner, as an independent agent of Parliament, is to ensure the federal government fulfills this responsibility.

"Bill 111 is a significant development and I wanted to congratulate the premier, personally, for bringing it forward," said Ms. Adam. "I have also let the government know that my office will be there to help, both with technical expertise and in securing support from the broader federal system."

Nova Scotia's French-language Services Act was passed in the fall sitting of the House of Assembly.

"Provincial departments have already begun to work with the Office of Acadian Affairs to develop plans for improving, over time, service in French," said Mr. d'Entremont.

Le communiqué en Français est disponible sur le site web du gouvernment.