Evidence of meeting #133 for Official Languages in the 42nd Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was action.
A video is available from Parliament.
Noon
NDP
François Choquette NDP Drummond, QC
In January or February, did federal officials call their Ontario counterparts about the Université de l'Ontario français file?
Noon
Director General, Official Languages Branch, Department of Canadian Heritage
We are in regular contact with the province of Ontario, not only about the university, but also as part of our federal-provincial co-operation on teaching French as a first or second language. Communication is therefore ongoing. Ontario has every opportunity to raise the university issue on a regular basis through these—
Noon
NDP
François Choquette NDP Drummond, QC
Yes, but what do you tell them, given that they don't want to present a project? What do you tell them when you call them every week?
Noon
Director General, Official Languages Branch, Department of Canadian Heritage
For our part, we told the province what we needed to and were able to say, that the financial assistance is available, that there is a way to move ahead, that there is a door and that the door is open. We have been very clear with our provincial counterparts. The ball is now in their court. It is up to them to seize the opportunity, follow up and present us with a project. We can then study the project together and move it forward.
The offer was really made in a clear way to the public servants and to the politicians. Unfortunately—or fortunately, if you prefer—it is now up to Ontario to take the next step and respond to this offer. We are still waiting for that answer.
Noon
Liberal
The Chair Liberal Denis Paradis
Thank you, Mr. Choquette.
I would just like to add that some members of the committee would like to have copies of Minister Joly's two letters, if possible. You can give them to the clerk to add to our file.
Noon
Deputy Minister, Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, Department of Industry
Absolutely.
Noon
Liberal
The Chair Liberal Denis Paradis
You are the last witnesses appearing before us in this study.
I wanted to thank you for the insight you provided to the members of the committee on this issue. I think we will be able to prepare a more complete report thanks to you. On behalf of all members of the committee, thank you for your appearance and your presentation.
We will now suspend the meeting for a few minutes.
[Proceedings continue in camera]