EDMONTON – Speaking in Edmonton before representatives of the Franco-Albertan community, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff reiterated his commitment to helping francophone communities outside Quebec fully prosper.

“A Liberal government would renew the ties of trust and consultation that have made possible the remarkable progress of the past,” said Mr. Ignatieff. “It’s this collaborative approach that led to Canada’s Official Languages Action Plan under the previous Liberal government.”

“Since the Conservatives came to power, decisions affecting Franco-Canadians have been made in silos – and we’ve regressed as a result. The francophone community in Canada have taken notice and want a new approach.”

The Fédération des communautés culturelles francophones et acadiennes have strongly criticized the Harper Conservative for their lack of dialogue when creating the Roadmap for Canada’s Linguistic Duality.

“The strength of a nation is built by the inclusion of communities and their ideas,” said Mr. Ignatieff. “Canada is stronger when we act together.”