Thank you, Mr. Chair.
In my opinion, languages can be used as bridges or as walls. I think that we need many more bridges between peoples to maintain the objective of speaking both official languages in Canada. This concerns students, but all of us as well. It is very important, even when we do not speak perfectly. In my opinion, pursuing this objective is very valid.
In my riding of Nanaimo-Alberni, there is an organization called the Association des francophones de Nanaimo. Every year, they hold a maple sugar festival. For the past few years, there have been exchanges between businessmen and women in my riding and businessmen and women in Quebec, where the maple products are made. Francophone schools and students in the immersion programs have the opportunity to experience the joy of life linked to francophone culture, songs and maple products.
That is why I am asking you a simple question. Do you believe that for regions at a great distance from Ottawa, this type of program can significantly contribute to attaining the committee's objective, that is maintaining the use of both official languages?