Wednesday Night #792
Wednesday 7 May 97
The Honourable Lucienne Robillard unfortunately, had been called away before
the evening began, so Margaret Lefebvre did a magnificent job of role-playing
our absent guest of honour, expertly fielding questions and barbs from the
assembled guests. Of course from Margaret, one would expect no less.
Following a tape of excerpts from last monday's municipal council meeting, the
guests were prepared to ask emotionally powerful questions. Margaret did Mme.
Robillard proud. A sampling of the comments follows.
It costs too much money to immigrate, resulting in numbers being more important than quality. The quota system, large investments, different requirements for immigration to Québec, eliminate many immigrants potentially very valuable to Canada. It was acknowledged however, that under extreme circumstances, these criteria are superseded by Canada's legendary generosity. In the 1960's, immigration to Québec was very simple, but no longer.
The money required for foreigners to immigrate quickly is being put into passive investments which do nothing to stimulate the economy.
The protection of the French language in Québec was cited as the reason for making this policy necessary. It was pointed out that this did not mean that anglophones were discriminated against in Québec, or that Westmount was not an integral part of Québec. There is a perception that our immigration policy is not based on fair play, but expediency, with very little if any consideration given to humanitarianism.
Immigration is correctly considered by the government to be a privilege rather than a right, but should be subject to a single national policy.
Immigrants especially, are concerned about the restrictions embodied
in Québec's language legislation. Speaking both official languages as second
languages, immigrants in business are required by law to favour some clients
over others on the basis of language.
Québec's population is shrinking and aging. We need an active population if our social benefits are to be maintained. More taxpayers are required. The official language policy is at odds with this economic reality.
The federal government has been caught up in the language debate. It needs to stop talking about language and talk more about the economy. The other side of that coin was the expressed belief that there is a current change in politics from confrontation to consensus building.
You can't build a business if you can't make people welcome. In Québec, newcomers are not made welcome.
The following question was asked without any of the otherwise loquacious guests even suggesting a reply: "Why did Mr.Parizeau release the information now?"
Do not confuse the aspiration of francophones with the aspirations of the Parti Québécois.
The flirt and exchange of cards lasted a record period of time, with
the crowd finally breaking up after midnight.
Called by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to go to Quebec City on an urgent matter, it was impossible for me to attend the discussuon group held last night at your house, as scheduled on my agenda.
I am writing to you to apologize for my absence, as well as to thank you for inviting me to this event.
Please, once again accept my sincere apologies. and I am very sorry.
Sincerely Lucienne Robillard
Minister of Citizenship and Immigration
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Hon Lucienne Robillard describes #810 Sep 10th.
© 1996 David T. Nicholson
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List of Wednesday Nights past By Herb Bercovitz By Sam
33 Rosemount Ave
Westmount Que H3Y 3G6
Canada