Corps
On March 18, 2025, Ombudsperson Marc-André Dowd sent a letter to the Commission des relations avec les citoyens in which he commented on Bill 84 – An Act respecting national integration.
This bill aims to improve the process of integrating immigrants into Québec society. Mr. Dowd welcomes this objective, but is concerned that certain changes could have repercussions with regard to:
- Persons appointed by the National Assembly, including the Protecteur du citoyen
Certain provisions of the bill would apply to appointed persons, undermining their essential independence. - Access to public services
The language requirements imposed on immigrants disregard the current situation. The supply of francization services is not sufficient to meet the demand.
Moreover, Mr. Dowd is of the opinion that the Administration should, in certain cases, be more flexible as to the language used in responding to citizens. No one should be left without recourse simply because they lack proficiency in French. - The Charter of human rights and freedoms
The interpretation of the Charter should not be influenced by government regulations or policies. This will be the case if the bill is passed as proposed. - First Nations and Inuit
Consideration of indigenous rights should be strengthened in the bill.
In view of the above, the Ombudsperson is making three recommendations to the Commission.
Letter from the Protecteur du citoyen regarding Bill 84 (PDF, 202 KiB, in French only)
