Our two official languages are at the heart of the Canadian identity. They are integral parts of our society's linguistic landscape. Protecting and promoting our two official languages and defending official language minority communities are priorities for the Government of Canada.
Today in Parliament, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced the tabling of draft regulations on administrative monetary penalties, as outlined in the new version of the Official Languages Act.
The regulations will frame the exercise of a new power available to the Commissioner of Official Languages, which is the power to impose administrative monetary penalties on certain passenger transportation industry entities that are subject to the Official Languages Act.
Once the draft regulation is adopted, the Commissioner will be able to apply a financial deterrent against non-compliance with obligations regarding communications with the public and the provision of services in both official languages. This will allow the Commissioner to respond more effectively to recurring complaints in the passenger transportation industry.
Potential sanctions may be adjusted based on several factors, including the severity of the situation, the repetitive nature of the violation and its impact, corrective measures taken by the organization, and the size of the organization. This approach is meant to ensure fair, consistent and transparent administration of the sanctions.
The Government of Canada remains committed to advancing language rights, strengthening the use of English and French services offered to the public, and supporting more respectful and inclusive experiences for all travellers to the country.
