MONTREAL – Quebec’s English language groups are going on the offensive. They’re tearing into the government’s plan to adopt Bill 86.
“It strips the community of our rights to control and manage education within our community,” former MP Marlene Jennings said at a Wednesday morning news conference.
School board commissioners, parent associations and language activists fear the proposed law will weaken their ability to run English public schools.
The government proposes to eliminate school board elections and replace commissioners with parents and other community members.
School board officials deny this is a power grab. Instead, they argue their battle is about protecting and improving education.
“Nothing in this bill discusses student success. This is a minister that is completely disconnected with our community,” said Jennifer Maccarone of the Quebec English School Boards’ Association.
Education Minister François Blais wasn’t available for comment Wednesday, but his office released this statement:
“Bill 86 was drafted after consulting the anglophone community. It’s a fair proposal that gives priority to those closest to the students — namely parents, teachers and staff members. It respects the rights of minorities to manage their schools.”
Advocates for English education disagree.
”This is giving more central authority to the minister of education and removing the local autonomy,” James Shea, president of the Western Quebec School Board said.
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Advocates for English education boast a graduation rate of 85 per cent in English public schools which they say is the best or among the best in the country.
”Eighty-five per cent success rate, I think we’re doing everything right,” Maccarone said.
Jennings chaired a panel studying the elections system in Quebec and made 13 recommendations. None were adopted.
Officials insist the government didn’t even consult English minority groups in drafting its bill.
”Under bill 86 I have no rights. Absolutely no rights,” Jennings said.
Members say they will continue their fight to defeat the bill and are ready to challenge it in court if necessary.
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