Official Languages Commissioner Raymond Théberge says he will “investigate” the appointment of Governor General Mary Simon over her inability to speak French, says Blacklock’s Reporter..“Too often I see discourse that puts respect for diversity and inclusion on one hand, and respect for official languages on the other, as if they were mutually exclusive and could not coexist,” Théberge said in a statement..“I would like to remind decision-makers that it is entirely possible to respect official languages while being inclusive.”.Two previous appointees lacked fluency in French and it’s not a legal requirement under the 1969 Official Languages Act..Théberge said he had received “a large volume of complaints” about the governor general, more than 400 to date..“The appointment of a governor general who is not fluent in both official languages has elicited many reactions across the country,” he said..“This demonstrates linguistic duality continues to be an important value for Canadians,” said Théberge..“We have analyzed the complaints received to date and determined they are admissible.”.“I will therefore be investigating this matter,” said Théberge. “My investigation will focus on the Privy Council Office in its advisory role on this appointment.”.Two of Simon’s predecessors were not considered fluently bilingual: former Manitoba premier Ed Schreyer appointed in 1978, and ex-Privy Council President Ray Hnatyshyn appointed in 1989. Neither appointment was investigated by the language commissioner..Simon formally takes office July 26. “I’m sure there will be lots of people there that will actually help me learn to speak French,” Simon earlier told reporters..“I have taken a number of French lessons,” said Simon. “I’ve always wanted to learn French, but never really had the opportunity because my work was full-time all my life,” she said..“I’ve worked in Québec City quite a bit and it seems to me that because we have common issues to discuss, we can find ways to get rid of the barrier in terms of language,” said Simon. “But that doesn’t mean I am not going to make a commitment.”.“I have made a commitment to learn French,” said Simon. “I’m ready to start any day after my installation to work at Rideau Hall in the two official languages.”.The Prime Minister’s Office did not comment. Commissioner Théberge yesterday did not indicate when his investigation will be complete, or whether findings would be made public..The Official Languages Act states federal services should be provided in either English or French on demand, but does not mandate fluency by all public office holders. The Act’s preamble states Canadians — regardless of their language — should “have equal opportunities to obtain employment in the institutions of the Parliament or Government of Canada.” Simon speaks English and Inuktitut.
