The needs of Alberta's francophone population are only growing, and that growth creates pressure. Since funding under the Canada-community agreement has not increased in so many years, it is extremely difficult to earn competitive salaries in Alberta. The cost of living is relatively high here and private-sector salaries are extremely high.
We therefore have few staff who can provide the services. Furthermore, the variety of services necessary is increasing. We need early childhood services. A report by the Commissioner of Official Languages that was published this week concerns the need for day care services. In Alberta, the need is absolutely glaring. We have francization needs in our primary schools, at the kindergarten and early kindergarten levels. We also have needs with respect to our seniors. Needs are being filled in justice and health as well.
We also have to make ourselves known. As we are a number of small networks spread all over Alberta, we should be able to invest in the promotion of our communities so that people from outside the province know we exist. It often takes two or three years for people to discover that there are francophone communities in Alberta. We need infrastructure. In Calgary, we need a centre where people can gather.
In short, the needs are enormous, and we need the roadmap's support.