“A French-language distance learning group has released a new report. It shares ways to make online education more fair and accessible for French speakers across Canada. I want to congratulate them for this work.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the tabling of a white paper by the Réseau d’enseignement francophone à distance, or REFAD, on inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility in distance education. This document is the product of a collective effort. It highlights concrete issues facing francophone learners and institutions, especially in a minority context. In today’s digital age, we have to ensure that no one is left behind. This white paper contains practical recommendations for building a more inclusive, equitable and accessible education system for all of Canada’s francophones. I congratulate REFAD, its partners and the working group for their efforts and contributions to this analysis of a topic of vital importance to Canada’s francophonie. Through these initiatives and the Government of Canada’s commitment to official languages and accessibility, we are building a more inclusive Canada where everyone has full access to learning opportunities, regardless of their circumstances or background.”