I previously wrote that it was time for us to review the accord in the context of that change.
With respect to the temporary immigrant issue, we at least have a whole program, the international mobility program, which is not at all considered in the accord, as it was created after the accord was signed. However it's the second most important program after the study permits. So something should be done in that regard.
The particular issue with this two-step change, apart from the many aspects relating to the accord, is that some of the factors that determine the language a person will use once in Canada appear before that person arrives. However, someone who doesn't speak French on arrival has to be immersed in the French language and culture in short order.
In the case of temporary immigrants, there's no selection by recruitment pool, for example. They can't be recruited in countries whose culture has some affinity with French. There's no selection at all. As I said, there are no language requirements. Consequently, if they enrol in English study programs or work in English—which is entirely possible, even in Quebec—it can take five or six years when they file an application for permanent residence.
However, that's where the accord comes into play. If they apply through the Quebec experience program, they're required to demonstrate their knowledge of French, but I believe many of you around this table understand that passing a test in a second language doesn't mean you'll adopt it at home and use it in public.
Consequently, this change is creating specific problems for the type of francophone immigration we're discussing today.