Introduction of Bill S-209: Official Languages Back on the Agenda

OTTAWA, December 8, 2015 – Manitoba Senator Maria Chaput today introduced Bill S-209 in the Senate. The bill would modernize Part IV of the Official Languages Act – communications with and services to the public by federal institutions.

Bill S-209 is Senator Chaput’s fourth bill. She previously introduced Bill S-205, which died on the Order Paper when the federal election was called. “The work continues,” said Senator Chaput. “I am hopeful that the new government will show more openness to the needs of official language minority communities.”

The Standing Senate Committee on Official Languages studied Bill S-205 during the last session of Parliament. “The Official Languages Commissioner confirmed his support for the bill and we had the full support of lawyers, experts and community organizations appearing before the Committee. This legislation needs to be back on the agenda,” said Chaput.

Senator Chaput will provide an overview of the bill in early 2016, when the Senate returns after the winter break.

Website: www.mariachaput.ca
Twitter: @SenChaput
Liberal Senate Forum: http://liberalsenateforum.ca

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To obtain an interview with Senator Chaput, please contact:
Suzanne Belliveau at 613-943-2435 or by email at [email protected]