Quebec is budgeting over $500,000 to promote and support the French language among new immigrants, especially in the Montreal region.
Justice Minister and Minister Responsible for the French Language Simon Jolin-Barrette issued a statement today saying the funding will support 12 associations that work on the integration of immigrants in developing projects to strengthen their use of French.
Jolin-Barrette says French skills are essential for immigrants in order to be a part of Quebec society.
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The announcement comes as Quebec’s proposed overhaul of its French-language charter is making its way through the legislative process.
Bill 96 seeks to unilaterally change the Canadian Constitution and affirm Quebec as a nation, making French its official language.
It includes 200 amendments that aim to strengthen the status of French, such as more language requirements for businesses and less access to English-language junior colleges.