For Immediate Release
February 17, 2023
CPF-NB Thanks Premier for Abandoning Plans to Abolish French Immersion
(Sussex, NB) Canadian Parents for French New Brunswick is applauding the people of the province for speaking out over the last few months about the importance of French Immersion, after the government announced a move to abolish it for a 50/50 model. The Education Minister announced today that the government would not proceed with implementing the proposed 50/50 framework and would be opening registration for Grade 1 French Immersion this fall.
Chris Collins, executive director of CPF-NB says “We are thrilled with the government’s announcement this afternoon. The people of this province made this happen. So many of them took the time and the effort to make sure their voices were heard. They showed up at meetings, they called their MLAs, they spoke about the need to keep Immersion in New Brunswick with their friends and neighbours, and they engaged in meaningful dialogue on social media. I think this issue really brought people together and helped to show that helping our children and grandchildren have more opportunities to succeed is what we are all after. Bilingualism makes us stronger.“
Over 1000 people turned up to the public meetings in Bathurst, Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton last month, and more took part in the virtual sessions as well. Collins says: “The fact that there were so many teachers speaking out at these meetings shows that there is a lot of need in the system. Having the Premier and the Education Minister acknowledge that, and pledge to address those needs is such welcome news! We at CPF-NB know that it’s a huge undertaking, and would love to offer any help we can as the government moves forward. At this point, we will continue to monitor the Language Learning Opportunities, or LLOs, with concern.”
Bilingualism is paramount to the success of our province, and French Immersion is a proven way to give more New Brunswickers more opportunity. As parent Nadine Fullerton pointed out at the Moncton consultation meeting on January 18th, “…it’s what sets us apart, nationally and globally.”
“The people of New Brunswick spoke loudly and clearly about the importance of French Immersion in our education system. They also spoke of the need to address problems in the English Prime program, as well as providing supports and resources. I’m so thrilled to see that the Premier and the Education Minister really heard all that was said at the consultation meetings. This feels like it could be a genuine turning point for the education of students in New Brunswick.” said Collins.
Media Contact:
Chris Collins
Executive Director
Canadian Parents for French New Brunswick
Whatsapp: 506-875-0467
Jen Hudson
Media Relations
506-521-0967