Senate Committee on Official Languages - Ongoing Studies

Official title: Examine and report on such issues as may arise from time to time relating to official languages generally

open Policy & Studies Indigenous & Northern Justice & Rights
The Senate's Official Languages Committee is conducting several ongoing studies. They're examining how federal institutions support arts and culture in minority language communities, looking at health services for French and English minorities, and reviewing the regulatory framework for Part VII of the Official Languages Act. These are permanent studies, meaning the committee can investigate issues as they arise without needing special permission from the Senate.

Why This Matters

Speak French outside Quebec? English in Quebec? This affects you. The committee is looking at whether you can get healthcare in your language and whether your community's cultural organizations get proper federal support. Their findings could shape how the government protects language rights across Canada.

What Could Change

The committee's reports could lead to changes in how federal institutions fund minority-language arts and cultural organizations. Health Canada might face new requirements to ensure services are available in both official languages. The regulatory framework under Part VII could be strengthened, giving language communities more tools to hold the government accountable.

Key Issues

  • How well do federal institutions support arts, culture, and heritage in official language minority communities?
  • Are health services adequately available in minority official languages across Canada?
  • Is the regulatory framework for Part VII of the Official Languages Act effective?

How to Participate

  1. Review the committee's studies and witness testimony to understand what issues are being examined.
  2. Organizations and individuals with relevant expertise can request to appear as witnesses. Visit the For Witnesses page for information on how to participate.
  3. Submit a written brief to the committee. Check the Briefs and Other Documents page for submission guidelines.

Events

Date Event Location
December 8, 2025 5:02 PM ET Committee Meeting - Arts, Culture and Heritage Study — Register →

Key Documents