In a statement Wednesday morning, PQ language and immigration critic Pascal Bérubé said the proposals are part of an effort to promote the use of French and assist the integration of immigrants.
Bérubé argues that such ceremonies would underline to immigrants the unique character of French and its importance to their “host nation.” He also states that in his opinion, the actual citizenship ceremonies conducted by the federal government do not fit the reality of Quebec because they state that Canada is a bilingual country and include references to the “king of England.”
The proposed ceremonies would be held on an annual basis in provincial ridings by the local MNA, during which the importance of successful integration in French by newcomers would be underlined. Participants would receive a certificate and a Quebec flag.
Bérubé also states that all businesses in Quebec have an obligation to meet all demands by the OQLF, and proposes those that do so should receive a good-conduct sticker to be placed on the entrances to their establishments. The MNA says the stickers would allow merchants to exhibit their support for the protection of the French language and customers would be able to choose which businesses to support.
Bérubé praised the “J’apprends le français” program launched by the Board of Trade of Greater Montreal, which aims to improve the proficiency of French among employees in small businesses. He described it as a step in the right direction, given the urgency to act.
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