In order to provide a consistent picture of language growth or decline across official languages groups and in order to identify critical success factors that provide a basis upon which to make well-informed decisions for language programs and policies, the office recommends the Legislative Assembly approves funding to the Bureau of Statistics, in consultation with the Office of the Languages Commissioner, to undertake socio-linguistic research every three to five years.
Members of the standing committee had the opportunity to peruse several survey options provided by the NWT Bureau of Statistics. The committee is aware that good information is essential for the protection of languages and culture. However, the committee is also aware that the Special Committee on the Review of the Official Languages Act is investigating this issue and will be presenting their report next year. The standing committee would like to wait for the special committee's findings on this matter before making a specific recommendation on this topic.