Official Languages committee  Quite simply, the FCAA, which speaks on behalf of the community, has established strategies for the purposes of consulting the community, community forums and so on. We review our plans, strategies and priorities on a yearly basis in order to ensure that we are on the right path.

Official Languages committee  I want to make two comments. The first concerns the Saint-Thomas Health Centre. This is a $24 million project. There is a $1.2 million shortfall, and we are still waiting. The only contribution from the federal government would be $1.2 million. Our concern with regard to program

Official Languages committee  To come back to your question, without providing you with the solution, the community may identify solutions for you on the ground. We need to be seen as partners in development, intake and settlement.

Official Languages committee  I have no problem answering that question. Ultimately, francophone communities often resort to using the courts. The courts are often their only tool, and often, we challenge the provincial government. The goal is not to identify whether legislation is constitutional or unconstit

Official Languages committee  If I may begin with a comment, I will mention the recent statement by the government on the status of Quebeckers as a nation. I don't have a problem with Quebec identity; Quebeckers believe that they form a people. For some 10 or 11 months now, we have been waiting for the curre

Official Languages committee  The community created a round table to make proposals to Canadian Heritage's regional office. This is where decisions about the ultimate allocation of funding is made. Last year was the first time. We are working to improve the communication process.

Official Languages committee  No. We make a proposal to Canadian Heritage, and its officers make the decisions. I know that there are concerns and I am trying to be politically correct. There is truth and there is reality. In fact, we are working hard with the structures currently in place, but we would like

Official Languages committee  No.

Official Languages committee  First, I was not trying to be aggressive, but rather to say that we recognize the special status of Quebeckers. Then, we would like to obtain the same official recognition. I would like Mr. Harper to say this. When he talks about the Canadian Francophonie, I would like him to als

Official Languages committee  With regard to the survival of the francophone community, we really see ourselves as an asset. We are see ourselves as something special that reinforces the fabric of Canadian citizenship. We do not see ourselves as a minority community, but rather as a community that happens to

Official Languages committee  This is a loaded question and a loaded comment, because there is no easy answer. In my opinion, the federal government is responsible for ensuring that it always talks with provincial and territorial governments about the francophonie.

Official Languages committee  It will be me, Jean Johnson.

Official Languages committee  Perfect. Thank you very much. I would like to begin by thanking you for inviting us to give you our opinion as part of your study on Canada's roadmap for official languages 2013-2018. My name is Jean Johnson, and I am president of the Association canadienne-française de l'Alber

Official Languages committee  Yes?

Official Languages committee  All right.