Tuesday, 25 October 2011 16:50
Debates of the Senate - Question Period
Hon. Maria Chaput: When we talk about the roadmap, I think it would be important for the communities to receive an evaluation of what has been done so far and to then look at what is planned for the next two years before renewing the roadmap. This would allow for consultation between the government and the communities.
Since that is the government's intention, does the leader not believe that it would be a good idea to have some sort of re-evaluation right now, in consultation with the communities, to address the situation and then allow for a new roadmap?
Senator LeBreton: I must say that the minister responsible continues with monitoring and progress reports. I dare say that no one would embark on a program without having follow-up.
However, it would be nice if perhaps the Commissioner of Official Languages understood that we are only in year three of our five-year roadmap plan.
Senator Chaput: In his report, the Commissioner of Official Languages recommended that the Treasury Board be given more responsibility since it is already responsible for reviewing official language policies.
Can the leader tell us whether the government would be prepared to consider giving the Treasury Board of Canada more responsibility?
Senator LeBreton: Honourable senators, I will not comment specifically. However, we always respond and do take seriously the recommendations and suggestions that are made by officers of Parliament. At this time, I do not know whether or not the government will decide to go that route, but I wish to assure honourable senators that all recommendations by all officers of Parliament are taken seriously by the government.