We could say that's the case.
The number of Canadians who speak more than one language is increasing, but the ability of Canadians to speak in both of Canada's official languages is decreasing in parts of the country. It's certainly a concern. That's why I think immigration and education are the future. We want to talk about the need to speak both official languages, and not necessarily just to the Canadian adults of today.
The ability to speak several languages develops when we are young. It's critical to have a much more effective education system to improve the deliver of services and programming for children in immersion. Over the past 17 years in British Columbia, there has been a steady increase in the number and percentage of students enrolled in French immersion programs. There are very good examples of success across the country.
But it's difficult to encourage this type of thing without coordination with the provinces. It's difficult because the provinces must themselves juggle budget cuts and financial difficulties. The health care system in particular is costing more and more across Canada. Every one of us, regardless of our political affiliation, province or region we come from, must continue to champion official languages. The federal government must encourage the provinces to develop a serious approach toward Canada's two official languages and invest in them through policies it will be responsible for coordinating with them.
As you know, our young people are very successful when they can speak English and French.