Quebec English School Boards Association - Open letter sent to the Premier
ministre Jean Charest

MONTREAL , Oct. 23 /CNW Telbec/ -

    
    Monsieur Jean Charest
    Premier ministre
    Gouvernement du Québec
    835, boulevard René-Lévesque Est
    Québec (Québec) G1A 1B4


    M. le Premier-ministre,

    I am writing to you on behalf of the Quebec English School Boards
    Association (QESBA) to seek a meeting to discuss yesterday's Supreme
    Court ruling striking down Bill 104. As you know, QESBA has consistently
    maintained that Quebec can and must ensure a balance between the future
    health and stability of English public schooling in Quebec and the
    essential protection and promotion of the French language. That, in our
    view, is the essence of the decision.

    The Court has called on the National Assembly to devise a solution that
    will respect the Constitution. QESBA, and particularly, its two largest
    Montreal-area member school boards are deeply affected by its potential
    implications. With that in mind, QESBA respectfully requests the earliest
    opportunity to meet with you to discuss how this ruling can be
    implemented in a manner that is reflective of the needs of all Quebecers.

    I needn't remind you that our public schools are an absolute cornerstone
    of Quebec's English-speaking communities. They are, at the same time, an
    active participant in the francization of young Quebecers. This Supreme
    Court ruling, in our view, requires that you government confirm these
    complementary values and imperatives. QESBA trusts that you will agree to
    meet with us to further exchange views on this very important matter.

    Thank you, Monsieur le Premier ministre, for your prompt attention to
    this request.

    Sincerely,

    (signed)

    Debbie Horrocks
    President
    

For further information: Kimberley Hamilton, Director of Communications and Special Projects, [phone], ext. 225, Cell.: [phone]