Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. If I can get the Assembly’s attention one more time on a report.
Your committee on Government Operations is pleased to provide its Report on the Review of the Office of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010 and commends it to the House.
Introduction
The Standing Committee on Government Operations (SCOGO) met on March 3, 2011, to review “The Office of the Northwest Territories Languages Commissioner Annual Report 2009-2010.” The committee would like to thank the Languages Commissioner, Ms. Sarah Jerome, for presenting her report.
Commentary
The Office of the Languages Commissioner is accessible through its website, a toll-free phone line and an office in Inuvik. It is promoted through radio advertisements in all official languages, and by Ms. Jerome, in her frequent attendance at public
functions, and when she is interviewed by the media.
The committee notes that promotion of languages is not in the Official Languages Commissioner’s purview. However, it is Ms. Jerome’s role to promote the office of the Languages Commissioner, the rights, status and privileges of official language speakers pursuant to the Official Languages Act, and her availability to answer questions or investigate complaints.
The committee is also pleased with the approach taken by Ms. Jerome. As part of her regular practice, she attends summer assemblies and regional council meetings throughout the Northwest Territories. In 2009-2010 the Commissioner made more than a dozen presentations on official languages at these assemblies and other meetings and conferences. Ms. Jerome’s presence and her sincere interest help to support community members involved in promotion, revitalization and enhancement of first languages.
When she is attending meetings, conferences and school functions, Ms. Jerome responds to many inquiries. She also investigates complaints. The committee respects and values Ms. Jerome’s observations and good judgment. Ms.
Jerome,
subject to Article 20(2) of the Official Languages Act, may investigate any matter, not just complaints, on her own initiative. If Ms. Jerome deems an issue worthy of study, Members will welcome reading her findings and recommendations in future annual reports.
Conclusion
The Standing Committee on Government Operations would like to thank Ms. Jerome for her activities promoting the role of the Languages Commissioner. Her many community visits to make presentations and to listen to peoples’ concerns give her a valuable perspective on language issues.