Francophone researchers and researchers wishing to conduct research in French often do so in English because working in that language definitely affords more opportunities and prestige.
Mrs. Cardinal offered several potential solutions, such as creating awards, awarding grants specific to this field and scholarships for students.
We really need to create a space where research in French is valued in the same way and enjoys the same legitimacy as research in English. As research work has shown, working in English also poses a danger that's inherent in the very nature of research: it becomes less and less specific and the issues expand. All research on community needs should be conducted in the language of the community. However, the very subjects of that research are threatened if research in that language isn't encouraged. The danger inherent in conducting research in English is that detailed and specific knowledge of Canadian complexity, which, in particular, includes the francophone aspect, is lost.