You raise an interesting question, which has also been discussed at our office. We noticed that the expression “national languages” was used in the Speech from the Throne. I do not have a clear answer for you as to the distinction between an official language and a national language. If we agree that certain languages are official and that others are national, which is to say limited to a certain territory, I think there may be a risk of creating hierarchy. That being said, I am just beginning to reflect upon this issue, which is why I hesitate to provide you with a clear answer.
On November 27th, 2013. See this statement in context.