Official Languages committee  I think you and your colleagues asked questions about very specific measures or initiatives. I would encourage you, instead, to think about a policy framework that you can use to support a whole slew of efforts. Clearly, sharing our stories is the key here. But those stories can be shared in writing, through social media, in documentaries, in more traditional television productions and so forth.

Official Languages committee  My answer is going to be disappointing, and I apologize. We have a saying, crises bring people together. It's easy to rally Canadians around a cause they perceive as critical. It's also possible to bring them together for a memorial or celebration. We see arts and culture as a key strategy, a key piece in bringing people together day to day.

Official Languages committee  It may also be a time to celebrate what we do best on the world stage. We are known champions of social development. In terms of our contributions to arts and culture, the impact of our innovation and creativity, Canada should not shy away from showing its pride to the world. Why not use such an occasion to celebrate that?

Official Languages committee  On our end, it's a matter of strategy or choice. The government needs to adopt a strategy underlying its desire to really make 2017 a memorable occasion. I'm sorry to say our ideas are a bit less concrete than those of our colleagues. To be able to unveil a series of new works, to be able to broadcast and display them for Canadians and others to enjoy, the time to commission them is not April 1, 2017.

Official Languages committee  We already articulated that we would be eager to contribute to such an effort or structure, whether that involves sitting on a committee or some new body, or taking part in consultations undertaken by such a body. We believe the celebrations should be put on by and for Canadians.

Official Languages committee  I'll give it a go. The activities I proposed would have a more lasting impact as far as arts and culture go, at the local or pan-Canadian level. I would say that investment is needed at both levels. The celebration would provide an opportunity to honour the local contribution made by artists and cultural workers on a regular, daily and permanent basis—their everyday achievements.

Official Languages committee  I don't know if I can give you a clear and detailed idea, but I will do my best.

Official Languages committee  I think the government would do well to invest in a fairly comprehensive strategy. We talked about concrete examples, and this is one. Capitalizing on social media is a highly strategic move and a winning proposition. Obviously, 50 years ago, when we celebrated the centennial of Confederation, we weren't equipped to foster the instant flow of information.

Official Languages committee  I would add a clarification, if I might, a thought that just came to me. Social media may offer an effective mechanism or lever to promote linguistic duality under this initiative. With social media, it is often possible to make some sort of language content available in the original language, while providing a simultaneous translation to the country, indeed the world.

Official Languages committee  I will ask Simone to answer, because I think she knows more about that than I do.

Official Languages committee  The impact of a substantial investment to mark the 2017 anniversary would extend well beyond the celebration itself. If you and the government as a whole opt for a broad vision, the spinoff from specific investments would be felt for generations to come. I cited the creation of the National Arts Centre as an example of that leveraging effect.

Official Languages committee  We certainly didn't undertake a reasoned or comprehensive evaluation of the needs. Intuitively, I can tell you I find it fascinating that both of us spoke of a more prolonged approach over time. It would be a shame if the only investments made to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation came in the 2016-17 fiscal year.

Official Languages committee  Good morning. Bon appétit. My name is Éric Dubeau. I am the Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française. I am joined by Simone Saint-Pierre, our Chief of Communications. Thank you for inviting us to this meeting. The FCCF is a national organization whose mission is to promote artistic and cultural expression of francophone and Acadian communities.

Official Languages committee  First of all, I thank you for asking the question. The link is quite clear, relevant and close. This is to say that, for artists and artistic organizations, the community media are a primary ally in terms of showcasing their talents. Without these partners, our communities would not know if there is a show on a certain night in Cornwall or in any of the other 37 communities that have a cultural centre.

Official Languages committee  Ah... yes.