Justin Trudeau's pick for Governor General, Mary Simon, is facing an investigation by Canada's official languages' watchdog after more than 400 complaints were filed over her lack of French, one of Canada's two official languages.
Previous appointees to the position spoke French, and while Simon claims to be learning French, she had the opportunity to do that when she worked as a public servant. Simon, who is Inuit, only speaks English and Inuktitut, Global News reports.
In a statement, Official Languages Commissioner Raymond Théberge said "the appointment of a governor general who is not fluent in both official languages has elicited many reactions across the country since her appointment was announced on July 6th."
While Théberge says that he understands the "turning point" that Canada is at when it comes to reconciliation, he says that the number of complaints over Simon's lack of French continue to grow. "I have also received a significant number of complaints on this matter—over 400 to date."
"In my opinion, this demonstrates that linguistic duality continues to be an important value for Canadians. We have analyzed the complaints received to date and have determined that they are admissible. I will therefore be investigating the matter."
Théberge says that his investigation will focus on the Privy Council Office's role in Simon's appointment. Justin Trudeau announced Simon's appointment on July 6, and she is expected to be sworn in on July 26.
Mary Simon's lack of French has outraged French Canadians, especially since she has had a professional career that has spanned around 50 years, giving her the opportunity to learn French.
Former MP Francoise Françoise Boivin tweeted that "In her entire career as a diplomat for Canada, has she never felt the need." Others are calling out the double standard, saying she would have never been appointed if she spoke French but not English. "I cannot imagine for a second that Mary Simon could have been appointed if she had spoken only Inuktitut and French." Tweeted Sylvain Lefebvre.
Some political pundits say Trudeau decided to appoint the new Governor General now as he is planning for an election in the coming months. However, with Quebec being a battleground province, it remains to see if Quebecers will remember Trudeau's non-french speaking Governor General at the polls.
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