QCGN supports intent of Chaput Bill

MONTREAL, Nov. 3, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - The Quebec Community Groups Network is pleased to support Bill S-205 which would enhance constitutional language rights contained in section 20 of the Official Languages Act. That is the message the QCGN is bringing today to the Senate Standing Committee on Official Languages which is currently studying Bill S-205, An Act to Amend the Official Languages Act.

This private member's bill, introduced by Senator Maria Chaput, would introduce the concept of equal quality of communications and services offered by federal institutions in each official language, and modify the criteria used to determine if there is a significant demand for communications and services in either official language. The proposed legislation would also expand the number of locations where federal institutions have a duty to provide communications and services in both official languages.

The QCGN, which welcomes any and all opportunities to improve Canada's Official Languages Act, noted that this ambitious legislation seeks to ensure equal quality of communications and services offered by federal institutions in each official language, and significantly alter the way demand is determined in fulfilling Part IV obligations. It would also move matters now dealt with in regulation into law, providing a level of stability.

"It is the duty of government to constantly expand the borders on our constitutional language rights," said QCGN vice-president James Shea. "Bill S-205 would certainly do this. This is why the Quebec Community Groups Network has supported previous iterations of Bill S-205, which we view as a natural and necessary evolution of the Official Languages Act."

The Quebec Community Groups Network (www.qcgn.ca) is a not-for-profit organization bringing together 41 English-language community organizations across Quebec. As a centre of evidence-based expertise and collective action it identifies, explores and addresses strategic issues affecting the development and vitality of the English-speaking community of Quebec and encourages dialogue and collaboration among its member organizations, individuals, community groups, institutions and leaders.

SOURCE: Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN)

Rita Legault, Director of Communications | [email protected], Telephone: [phone], ext. 223, cellular: 514-912-6555