Government progress on French language programs and services is highlighted in the first French Language Services Act annual report, says Premier Robert Ghiz, Minister responsible for Acadian and Francophone Affairs.
“The new French Language Services Act was proclaimed in its entirety in December 2013,” said Premier Ghiz. “It establishes clear obligations regarding the provision of services in French, and is based on the principle of aligning the service priorities of the Acadian and Francophone community with government’s service capacity. This is what makes it unique to Prince Edward Island.”
Twenty government institutions are subject to the new Act, including all provincial government departments and a number of agencies. One of the requirements is for these government institutions to produce an annual plan that outlines how they will develop, maintain, or enhance French language programs and services. Another requirement is for an annual report to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly by the minister responsible reflecting activities related to the Act. The report tabled today covers the period of December 14, 2013 to March 31, 2014.
According to the most recent data, just over 17,000 Islanders have French as a mother tongue or as a second language. The French Language Services Act demonstrates that the Government of Prince Edward Island values and is committed to providing services in French.
The report is available in French and English on the Acadian and Francophone Affairs Secretariat website at www.ipeservicesfrancais.ca (website available in both French and English).