In a significant announcement at Cafe Bicyclette in Edmonton, Alberta, Minister of Arts, Culture, and Status of Women, Tanya Fir, unveiled a comprehensive French Policy Action Plan aimed at bolstering services for Alberta’s Francophone community.
Minister Fir, flanked by François Eudes, co-chair of the Alberta Advisory Council on the Francophonie, and Nathalie Lachance, president of the ACFA, commenced the presentation by expressing her enthusiasm for the vibrant Francophone communities in Alberta. Acknowledging the pivotal role of French as the second most spoken language in the province, she emphasized her personal dedication by announcing her intention to revive her French language skills through lessons.
The newly unveiled French Policy Action Plan, spanning from 2024 to 2028, promises over 100 initiatives tailored to meet the needs of French-speaking Albertans. Minister Fir outlined the government’s commitment to improving services across various sectors, including early childhood education, healthcare, justice, social services, and more. Notably, 19 ministries are involved in the plan, reflecting a multi-faceted approach to address the diverse needs of the Francophone community.
Key highlights of the action plan include initiatives to enhance access to medical interpreters in French, provide recovery-oriented supports, improve court and justice services for French speakers, and offer culturally relevant services for vulnerable groups and seniors. Additionally, support for Francophone entrepreneurs and small businesses, as well as improvements to the French visitor experience at historic sites and museums, are among the priorities outlined in the plan.
Minister Fir underscored the collaborative effort that went into crafting the action plan, citing input from various Francophone stakeholders and organizations. She lauded the Alberta Advisory Council on the Francophonie for its ongoing work in providing valuable insights and thanked the ACFA for its advocacy on behalf of Francophone Albertans.
Reflecting on the progress made in previous years, Minister Fir highlighted the completion of numerous objectives outlined in the previous action plan, signaling the government’s commitment to supporting Francophone communities. She expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the new action plan, which builds upon past successes and addresses emerging challenges facing French-speaking Albertans.
In closing, Minister Fir extended gratitude to all Francophone organizations for their collaboration in developing the action plan and encouraged stakeholders to review the full details available on the government website. The event concluded with expressions of appreciation from François Eudes and Nathalie Lachance, as well as other attendees, for Minister Fir’s leadership and the unveiling of the ambitious French Policy Action Plan.
With its comprehensive approach and collaborative spirit, the plan sets a promising path forward for the vitality and prosperity of Alberta’s Francophonie.