The Government of Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) have signed a new Canada–Northwest Territories (NWT) agreement on French language services from 2023-2024 to 2027-2028.
Under this agreement, $5.9 million will be invested per fiscal year, for a total of $29.5 million over five years. Funding is provided to support the continued delivery of communications and services in French by GNWT departments, boards and agencies.
The Francophone community plays an essential role in the society of the Northwest Territories and contributes to its social, economic and cultural growth. The funding provided under the new agreement will play a vital role in helping to ensure the stability and continued delivery of services to the community.
Quotes
“The Canada-Northwest Territories Agreement on French Language Services is an important milestone for linguistic diversity and inclusion in Canada. This $29.5 million investment means that French-speaking residents of the Northwest Territories can access essential services in their language. The French language and culture in the North must be preserved and this funding is a great example of our commitment to supporting the French-speaking communities of the Northwest Territories. »
–Randy Boissonnault, Federal Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
“Ensuring the delivery of services in French is essential to foster an inclusive and dynamic Franco-Ténoise community. This new agreement with Canada not only reinforces our government’s commitment to the Franco-Ténois community, but also builds on the remarkable progress we have made over the years. This funding will allow us to continue to offer essential services in French, whether health care or vital administrative support services. »
–Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Training
Quick facts
- The previous agreement provided for $16.9 million over three years and ended in 2022-2023.
- In 2022-2023, the GNWT translated 2,740,768 words related to communications in French intended for the public.
- This funding agreement for French language services is part of the GNWT’s commitment to supporting all official languages of the NWT.
Related links
Media representatives should contact:
Briony Grabke
Public Relations and Communications Manager
Ministry of Education, Culture and Training
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-767-9352, ext. 71073
Mathis Denis
Press officer
Office of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
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