FRENCH LANGUAGE SERVICES INCREASE IN SASKATCHEWAN

The Report on French Languages Services released by the Francophone Affairs Branch notes that the provision of French-based government services in Saskatchewan continued to grow throughout 2010-11.

"Saskatchewan is a province which values the contributions made by its Fransaskois," Provincial Secretary Wayne Elhard said. "This report acknowledges that Saskatchewan's francophone community continues to develop and reach new heights. So it is only fitting that French language services grew to meet the needs of the community. I look forward to working with members of this community in the development of services and programs which will continue to strengthen the French language and culture in our province."

Among its highlights, the report notes that the French language Services Centre site Bonjour! has grown considerably. The site now features 230 bilingual pages that provide information to the public on government services available in French in areas such as: education, health, immigration, justice, labour and tourism. The site received almost 60,000 hits in its first year of operations and more than 400 new requests by individuals for services in French.

Francophone arts and culture were also strengthened in the province in 2010 with the completion of the production centre for La Troupe du Jour in Saskatoon. In addition to hosting La Troupe du Jour the facility will be accessible to both French and English community-based theatre and dance companies.

Full details of accomplishments by ministries, Crown corporations and government agencies are outlined in the Report on French language Services 2010-11. The report and information on Saskatchewan's French language Services Policy are available in English and French at www.ops.gov.sk.ca or at www.bonjour.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Jay Teneycke
Regina
Phone: 306-798-6095
Email: jay.teneycke@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-8630