Why modernize the Official Languages Act?

The Official Languages Act is a legislative framework under which a multitude of initiatives, programs and activities are deployed in a variety of sectors, including the economy, education, immigration, justice, health and translation. The Government of Canada decided to modernize the Act to ensure that it continued to serve Canadians in a changing environment.

There were several reasons for this decision. You will find some of them below:

An Act to Implement

After royal assent, most provisions of the Act for the Substantive Equality of Canada’s Official Languages are already in force. Some provisions come into effect at specified points in time:

1st anniversary of Royal Assent

2nd anniversary of Royal Assent

By Order in Council

Note: The UFPBA will come into force in regions with a strong Francophone presence 2 years later.

The government will eventually launch the regulatory process, another important milestone in the implementation of the Act. During this regulatory process, clarifications of certain concepts and certain obligations, definitions and methods of execution will have to be made in order to properly implement this new regime. Canadian Heritage will post details of its consultation process and how to participate on its website.

Visit the Government of Canada’s website on modernizing and strengthening the Official Languages Act to learn more about the bill and the history of the Official Languages Act.

Page details

Date modified: