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News Release
June 15, 2007

Nomination Period for 2008 Ontario Francophonie Awards Now Open

TORONTO – It is now time to submit nominations for the 2008 Ontario Francophonie Awards, for the recognition of individuals, both Francophone and Francophile, who have made valuable contributions to the advancement of the French language and culture in Ontario.

"The Francophonie Awards provide an opportunity to highlight the commitment and invaluable efforts of Ontario's Francophones and Francophiles," explained Madeleine Meilleur, Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs. "Their contribution to the prosperity of the Franco-Ontarian community and of the province in general needs to be recognized and rewarded. I invite all Ontarians to nominate a great number of candidates."

The nomination period extends from June 15, 2007 to October 30, 2007. The awards will be presented at a ceremony organized by the Ontario government in March 2008, during International Francophonie Week (Semaine internationale de la francophonie).

Presented for the first time on November 20, 2006 by Premier Dalton McGuinty at a gala celebration of the 20th anniversary of the French Language Services Act, the Francophonie Awards are granted to one Francophone and one Francophile whose actions have contributed to the social, economic, political and cultural vitality and well-being of Ontario's Francophone community.

For more information on making a nomination, or to obtain a nomination form, please visit the website of the Office of Francophone Affairs at www.ofa.gov.on.ca.

"We all know people who play an active role in promoting the vitality of the French language and culture in Ontario—both present and future—and their positive influence deserves to be publicly recognized," Meilleur added. "Thanks to the devotion and tireless work of all these people, Ontario's Francophone community is resolutely open and creative, and looks forward to a bright future."

This program is just one example of what can be achieved when Ontario Francophones work together. Other such initiatives include:

• The creation of the Office of the French Language Services Commissioner, which will be responsible for ensuring the quality and availability of French language services in the Ontario government
• Additional investments of $317 million in Ontario's French-language education system
• In health, an investment of $185 million to double the size of Montfort Hospital in Ottawa
• Self-governance granted to TFO, which will now have its own board of directors and its own budget
• Designation of the City of Kingston, the City of Brampton and the Municipality of Callander under the French Language Services Act.

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For more information:
Marc Despatie
Senior Strategic Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister Responsible For Francophone Affairs
416 325-5219

Charles Jean Sucsan
Senior Manager, Strategic Communications
Office of Francophone Affairs
416 325-4968

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