For immediate release
March 10, 2021, QUEEN’S PARK – Earlier today, Lucille Collard, MPP for Ottawa-Vanier put forward a motion on behalf of the Ontario Liberal caucus to permanently display the Franco-Ontarian flag in the legislative chamber. This addition to the legislature is long overdue and the Ontario liberal caucus is thrilled to have received unanimous consent.
Following the passing of the motion, MPP for Ottawa-Vanier, Lucille Collard released the following statement :
“Franco-Ontarians are an integral part of our province’s history, and it’s important that we recognize the vibrant and ongoing contributions of Franco-Ontarians across this province. This motion was also a way to celebrate our legislature’s recent adoption of the Franco-Ontarian flag as an official emblem of Ontario in Bill 182, Franco-Ontarian Emblem Amendment Act, 2020.
As March is Mois de la Francophonie, this was the perfect time to insist that Franco-Ontarian representation matters in Ontario. As the representative of one of the most francophone ridings in Ontario, I am extremely proud to have worked with all parties to make the Ontario Legislature reflect the diversity and resilience of francophone culture in Ontario. Working with my colleagues across the aisle, we were able to improve my original motion to also display the flag on the legislative grounds.
When I was knocking on doors in Ottawa-Vanier just over a year ago, I promised my constituents that I would collaborate with all parties to make sure our province is working for them. Today, I am proud to demonstrate once again this commitment. Collaboration benefits all Ontarians and we hope that thismotion is a sign of the government’s willingness to work with us further on improving access to services in French across the province.”
“Today our team ensured that Franco Ontarians have the place they deserve at Queen’s Park. Ontario Liberals have always been, and always will be, the francophone community’s ally,” added Amanda Simard, Ontario Liberal Critic for Francophone Affairs.