Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette has decided against instructing Élections Québec to send voter information materials in English before the upcoming general election on October 5 in the province. This decision comes after Élections Québec’s recent announcement that they would only be dispatching voter information materials in French to adhere to the French Language Charter, also known as Bill 96, which designates French as the exclusive language for communication in public institutions.
In response to criticisms from various quarters, including concerns raised by leaders of other political parties, organizations representing English-speaking residents of Quebec, and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, Fréchette stated on Wednesday that discussions were ongoing with Quebec’s chief electoral officer to determine the subsequent actions.
During a press briefing on Thursday, she emphasized that Élections Québec’s strategy to send information solely in French does not impede English speakers from obtaining necessary information. Fréchette clarified, “No one is being deprived of information access or the right to vote. Information will still be available in English,” pointing to resources accessible to English speakers online through QR codes provided in the French documents or by visiting the agency’s website.
Fréchette assured, “The English-speaking community’s rights are being upheld.” She confirmed that the ballot would remain bilingual as required. Responding to inquiries about a legal challenge mentioned by CBC News, Fréchette affirmed that the laws were being enforced.