News release

French-language Services Progress Report Released

Communities, Culture and Heritage (Jan. 2011 - Aug. 2021)

Government released the 2014 progress report on French-language services today, Dec. 9, on the 10th anniversary of the French-language Services Act.

The purpose of the act, adopted in 2004, is to contribute to the preservation and growth of the Acadian and francophone community and to provide for the delivery of French-language services by the Government of Nova Scotia.

"Government's focus is on providing quality front-line services in French, and making sure that the needs of the Acadian and francophone community are met," said Acadian Affairs Minister Michel Samson. "As we mark the 10th anniversary of the French-language Services Act, we can be proud of the work done by public servants across government to expand and enhance services offered in French."

The progress report outlines numerous improvements to services in French in the 2013-14 fiscal year including new literacy programs and library materials, programs and support for mental health, and enhanced online services from Access Nova Scotia.

"The Fédération Acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse believes that Acadian Affairs is essential to the implementation of the French-language Services Act," said president Ghislain Boudreau. "The report presented by Minister Samson illustrates well the work undertaken by various government institutions to increase services in French in our province.

"It is a clear demonstration of Acadian Affairs' leadership in the development of Nova Scotia's Acadie and we sincerely thank them for it."

The report highlights new services available in French, such as the Adopt-a-Library literacy program, Access Nova Scotia's online government store, and the burning restriction online information system. It also includes new online initiatives in French, such as information on new cellphone regulations, residential tenancies, property tax rebate for seniors and the Your Energy Rebate Program.

Read the 2014 Progress Report on French-language Services at http://acadien.novascotia.ca/en/reports .

Read the French-language Services Act at http://nslegislature.ca/legc/statutes/frenchla.htm .

Like Acadian Affairs on Facebook and view a new video of testimonials from community members about French-language services at www.facebook.com/Affairesacadiennes .

Follow government in French on Twitter @GouvNE.