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News Release
June 29, 2006
McGuinty Government Makes TfO Self-Governing
Independence for broadcaster enriches Franco-Ontarian education and culture
OTTAWA – The Ontario government's plan to revitalize and make TfO independent will have a significant and extremely positive impact on Ontario's Francophone community, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs Madeleine Meilleur announced today.
"TfO has become a key institution and a crucial development tool for Francophones living in Ontario", says Minister Meilleur. "TfO is a real cornerstone of Francophone vitality in Ontario and this new independence will allow it to grow and live up to the aspirations of all Francophones in the province."
Earlier this morning, Minister of Education Sandra Pupatello and Minister Meilleur announced that TfO is going to become a self-governing organization. The network will have its own board of directors and will be managed independently both in terms of its administration and its budget.
"L'Assemblée de la francophonie de l'Ontario (AFO) and its members are delighted with this change in the governance of TfO because it enhances the voice of Francophones who will benefit fully from its potential as an educational, cultural and socio-economic development institution", said Mariette Carrier-Fraser, Chair of AFO.
The TVOntario board of directors has been asked to prepare a plan to create an independent organization, including operating and capital budgets, as well as transition costs. The Board will also identify options to digitalize the network as it is envisioned for TVO. The TVOntario Board will present its recommendations to the government by December 15, 2006.
This important announcement reflects the government's continuing commitment to strong Francophone families and communities. Other recent examples of this commitment include:
- The signature of the Ontario-Quebec Cooperation Protocol on Francophone Affairs;
- An increase in support to French-language schools and an investment to improve access to and the programs of the province's French-language colleges and bilingual universities;
- The designation of Kingston under the French Language Services Act;
- The creation of the Ontario Francophonie Awards to recognize the many people who have made valuable contributions to the advancement of the French language and culture in Ontario;
- Grants to seven Ontario French-language arts and culture groups through the Cultural Strategic Investment Fund;
- A $15-million investment to enhance Francophone, rural, northern and First Nation libraries;
- An extensive program of celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of the French Language Services Act.
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Contacts:
Carole Drouin
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs
416 325-5219
Charles Jean Sucscan
Senior Manager, Strategic Communications
Office of Francophone Affairs
416 325-4968
