Municipal Language Policy

The City of Pointe-Claire is officially recognized as a bilingual municipality under Section 29.1 of the Charter of the French Language. As such, it is authorized to apply the provisions of Sections 23 to 26 of the Charter, which govern the use of a language other than French in a range of municipal activities. These include signage, document production, service delivery, use of technology, internal and external communications, and the language used in naming, meeting notices, agendas and minutes of deliberative assemblies. 

The City complies with these provisions while also ensuring that French, the official language of Québec, maintains its predominant role in municipal operations. 

You can consult the directive on the use of a language other than French, adopted in August 2024.

Please note that this document is available in French only.

View the directive

Respect for French as the Official Language 

Although the City holds bilingual status, it is firmly committed to upholding the primacy of the French language, as required by Québec legislation. All municipal communications and services are designed to align with this principle while remaining accessible to all residents. 

Reporting a Violation of the Charter of the French Language 

To promote transparency and compliance, the City offers a dedicated complaint form for reporting any potential violation of the Charter of the French Language in its services, signage, or communications. 

Each report is handled with care and confidentiality, in accordance with applicable laws and municipal accountability standards. 

Bilingual Services and Communications 

The City may offer services, produce documents, and communicate in both French and English, depending on the situation and the audience. General communications intended for the broader public are issued in both languages, while individual interactions are tailored to the resident’s preferred language. 

Documentation, Signage and Municipal Proceedings 

Official documents, publications, and signage are prepared in accordance with Sections 23 to 26 of the Charter, with French taking precedence when required. Public meetings, agendas, notices, and minutes may also be produced in both official languages. 

Ongoing Commitment to Compliance 

The City of Pointe-Claire is committed to full compliance with the Charter of the French Language. It continuously reviews its practices to ensure they meet legislative requirements and the linguistic needs of its residents, in a spirit of respect, transparency, and responsibility.