A report with recommendations on the ongoing development of the Acadian and Francophone community was released today by the Acadian and Francophone Community-Prince Edward Island Government Joint Working Group, says Premier Robert Ghiz, Minister responsible for Acadian and Francophone Affairs.
“The Joint Working Group was formed so government and the community could work collaboratively to establish a joint development plan to support the community’s vitality,” said Premier Ghiz. “Government has already made strides in the implementation of these recommendations and government strategic actions, and I am committed to continuing our efforts to support the Acadian and Francophone community.”
The new French Language Services Act, which received Royal Assent this spring, fulfills one of the strategic actions outlined in the Joint Working Group’s report. The new act builds on the existing legislation and lays the foundation for the designation of French language services.
The Joint Working Group includes five provincial government representatives from key departments and five representatives of the Acadian and Francophone community.
“The approach taken by the Joint Working Group is an innovative collaborative model in Canada. The Acadian and Francophone community hopes that this report will allow the provincial government to better meet the needs of the community,” said Gabriel Arsenault, community co-chair.
The Acadian and Francophone Community-PEI Government Joint Working Group report is now available in French and English. To download the report, visit the Acadian and Francophone Affairs web page at www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/afa_jwgrepeng.pdf.