(MONTREAL) — On this day of celebration of La Francophonie, the Green Party of Canada offers our support for the international influence of our common francophone culture. We consider the advancement of the francophone world to be closely tied to the sustainable development of French-speaking people around the globe.
Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands stated, “Without the French language, Canada as a modern state would not exist. Our country must do everything it can to protect it in Québec, New Brunswick and the Yukon, where French is an official language, as well as in the English-speaking provinces where French-speaking communities reside. And, of course, I have a special place in my heart for the British Colombian francophones who I represent in the House of Commons.”
Ms. May added: “Sustainable development is a main area of interest for the International Organization of La Francophonie (IOF), to which Canada contributes around $40 million annually. However, despite the IOF’s ongoing efforts, we have noticed that environmental protection and the fight against climate change have been neglected in recent years.”
Since the IOF’s latest report on its initiatives dates back to 2014, we are unable to measure the effectiveness of the actions of the Institut de la francophonie pour le développement durable, which is under the auspices of the IOF.
Daniel Green, Deputy Green Party Leader said, “The Green Party of Canada would like the government to require more transparency from the IOF regarding its environmental impact in the various countries it assists. Canada’s international credibility is at stake, as well as the government’s accountability to Canadians, especially since the Institut de la Francophonie pour le développement durable is located in Québec.”
“Transparency will ensure that Canadian international aid reaches the French-speaking communities worldwide that need it. The same transparency is therefore socioeconomically and culturally necessary for La Francophonie everywhere,” concluded Mr. Green.
Joey Leckman, Quebec spokesperson for the Green Party of Canada said, “Historically, the IOF contributed to Québec’s transformation during the quiet revolution when it joined the organization in 1971. Québec’s international influence is closely tied to its efforts to promote French culture worldwide.”
Celebrated on March 20 every year, the Journée internationale de la francophonie is an initiative of the International Organization of La Francophonie.
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For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Robin Marty, Press Secretary
Green Party of Canada
514 652-3669
[email protected]