I can confirm that this request was made by these two indigenous communities. I would be happy to welcome you and to join you in meeting with them, if I can be of assistance.
In its budget brief, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec‑Labrador, or AFNQL, requested funding to provide interpretation and translation services within its organization. The two main language families in Quebec, Algonquian and Iroquoian, include many indigenous languages. As you know, the unique reality of the first nations of Quebec and Labrador means that some communities speak French, some speak English and some are bilingual.
As a result, the AFNQL requested that its budget be increased by $225,000 to reflect this reality and to ensure the professional translation of documents and an interpretation service during major meetings.
However, the budget fails to provide for this. Do you plan to resolve this issue, especially since Canadian Heritage recognizes the unique reality of the first nations of Quebec and Labrador and is calling for an adjustment to this funding formula?