Joint News Release of the Office of the French Language Services Commissioner of Ontario and Canadian Parents for French (Ontario) – Commissioner Boileau and President Cruden Sign a Memorandum of Understanding
MISSISSAUGA, October 28, 2013 — The French Language Services Commissioner of Ontario, François Boileau, and the President of Canadian Parents for French (Ontario), Mary Cruden, announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding that outlines their desire and will to develop closer ties in order to promote the value of the French language, Franco-Ontarian culture and the benefits of official language bilingualism; and feel that it is in the best interest of Ontario’s society at large if Francophones and Francophiles work together in this pursuit.
“We applaud Commissioner Boileau’s recognition of the challenges in French as a second language (FSL) education and the advantages of working together for both the Francophile and Franco-Ontarian communities. Our national bilingualism is something to be proud of, and my organisation and I feel it is worth both nurturing and supporting.” stated Ms. Cruden.
“Mary and I share the same passion towards the desire and need for more French language education at the elementary, secondary and particularly postsecondary levels. There is a significant absence of choice and opportunity for our high school graduates when it comes to pursuing their education on the postsecondary level in French in Ontario.” noted Mr. Boileau, adding: “Combining both our knowledge and networks will benefit both the Francophone and Francophile communities.”
The Memorandum articulates that both parties will share promotional information and work collaboratively to explore recommendations produced by their investigations; and represents a collaborative relationship that both parties have already established over the past few years. This partnership also represents the direction that the Office of the French Language Services Commissioner is taking towards recognizing, acknowledging and working with the natural allies of Franco-Ontarians to amplify the need for more access to French language education at all levels.
“The obstacles that Ontarians face when trying to access French language education, whether it is in immersion or in French language schools is a shared obstacle that we hope to rectify together.” states Mr. Boileau, and, adds Ms. Cruden “Combining the strengths of our respective organisations will help guide our respective governments toward pragmatic solutions and lasting improvements in French language education. It’s a win-win situation.”
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Canadian Parents for French (CPF) is the national network of members that values French as an integral part of Canada and is dedicated to the promotion and creation of French Second Language learning opportunities for all Canadians.
The Office of the French Language Services Commissioner works to ensure active, integrated delivery of French-language services in support of the development of the Francophone community and Ontarian society.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact:
Simon Côté
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Office of the French Language Services Commissioner of Ontario
Telephone: 416-314-8247
Toll free: 1-866-246-5262
Email: communications.flsccsf@ontario.ca
Betty Gormley
Executive Director
Canadian Parents for French (Ontario)
Telephone: 905-366-1012 ext 2
Toll free: 1-800-667-0594
Email: bgormley@cpfont.on.ca