Montreal has introduced a new rulebook for its employees when interacting with English-speaking residents, outlining specific guidelines on when and how to provide service in English. The document, obtained by The Montreal Gazette through a request for access to information, is titled “Exemplary Conduct in the French Language: Mechanisms for Informing the Public.”
According to Sylvia Martin-Laforge, director-general of Talking. Advocating. Living in Québec (TALQ), the approach outlined in the guide seems to create a divide, with English-speaking citizens feeling targeted rather than included in the process. Karim Boulos, a political analyst, likened the guidelines to a “scarlet letter” approach that may further segregate communities.
City employees are instructed to initiate conversations in French and only switch to English as per the regulations of Bill 96. The guide includes scripted examples on how to transition to English but emphasizes that French should be the primary language used.
Some residents express concerns about the rigid language policies, with one local stating a preference for a bilingual environment that allows for flexibility in communication. Others criticize the rules for potentially driving away English-speaking individuals who feel marginalized by the regulations.
In addition to verbal interactions, the rules also address the display of printed materials, requiring French pamphlets to be prominently featured and bilingual versions to be offered discreetly upon request or at the employee’s discretion.
The city clarified its position on Bill 14, reaffirming that French is Quebec’s official language and services should be primarily provided in French. The statement emphasized the need for employees to exercise discretion, especially when interacting with English-speaking residents, Indigenous communities, or recent immigrants who may require exceptions to the French-only rule.
Overall, the new guidelines set boundaries on how much assistance city staff can offer in English, prompting concerns from advocates like Martin-Laforge, who argue that the restrictions may alienate English-speaking Quebecers and hinder their access to essential services.
