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News Release
January 23, 2007

Brampton Francophones Gain Better Access to Ontario Government Services In French

Designation Under The French Language Services Act is in Force

TORONTO – Provincial government offices in Brampton are now officially offering French-language services since the city’s designation under the French Language Services Act came into force on January 1, Francophone Affairs Minister Madeleine Meilleur announced today.

The designation of the Municipality of Callander in Parry Sound district also took effect on January 1, 2007.

"I am extremely pleased that we continue to expand access to French-language services for Ontario’s Francophones," said Meilleur. "This is further evidence of the government’s ongoing commitment to the vitality of Ontario’s Francophone community, and desire to deliver modern and high quality services to Franco-Ontarians."

The Office of Francophone Affairs as well as involved ministries and agencies have worked closely with the Francophone community of Brampton to ensure an efficient implementation. Residents of Callander, the 24th area designated under the act, can access government services in nearby North Bay.

"The implementation of the designation of Brampton under the French Language Services Act is a telling example of successful co-operation between the Francophone community and the government", said Denis Poirier, co-chair of the Brampton French-Language Services Implementation Advisory Committee. "Brampton community members have worked hard toward this designation, and the ongoing support of the Government of Ontario made it a reality in a very short timeframe."

The government announced in spring 2006 that Kingston will become the 25th area designated under the French Language Services Act. Provincial government offices located in Kingston will offer French-language services effective May 1, 2009.

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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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