QUESTION PERIOD — Canadian Heritage
Respect for Official Languages
March 24, 2026
Honourable senators, we were all deeply affected by the accident at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, which claimed the lives of the aircraft’s pilot and co-pilot. Over 40 passengers and crew members were also injured. We offer our sincere condolences and support to the families involved.
Like many francophones in this country, however, I was frankly shocked to hear the president of Air Canada offer his condolences to the flight’s victims in English only. Unfortunately, this is another example of the lack of consideration shown to francophones by Air Canada and its president.
Although the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Transport spoke out about this matter, at a certain point indulgence turns into complacency. Government Representative, why does the government keep tolerating such disdain for French at the highest level of Air Canada?
Senator Forest, let me start by adding my voice to yours and to the voices of the Government of Canada and all senators in this place to offer the families and loved ones of the victims of this tragedy our sincerest condolences.
I read the statements by the Ministers of Transport and Finance concerning the unilingualism of Air Canada’s president and CEO. Considering that we were celebrating the Canadian francophonie only days ago, I speak on behalf of all francophones and francophiles in the Senate when I say that I consider this situation completely unacceptable.
