“Every English-speaking person has the right to receive health and social services in English to the extent provided by access programs,” reads the new directive published by the Quebec government on Monday.
The two-page document comes after the original French-language directives for the health-care network — sent in July — faced criticism and confusion from English-speaking Quebecers.
“All services provided by institutions designated by government decree, and services indicated in the access programs must be offered in English,” it says. “No restrictions have been placed on this right.”
Déclaration concernant la nouvelle directive sur les soins dans une langue autre que le français????????https://t.co/zLGC0aewoL pic.twitter.com/0xN816U4TE
— Christian Dubé (@cdube_sante) September 23, 2024
If it’s recognized by Quebec’s language watchdog, the new directive also states that organizations in social and health-care services can use a different language when providing care.
“Health and social services provided by recognized institutions may be offered in the language of recognition,” it says.
In all other cases, it is stated that health and social services can be offered in a language other than French, when the health of any person so requires, upon request.
(Courtesy: Sante et Services Sociaux Quebec)
In an interview with CityNews on Aug. 9, Roberge clarified that the directive pertains to the administration of the hospital and the health-care system stating, “You don’t have to show a document you don’t have to answer any question. If you go to an hospital and you need some help, you don’t feel well, you’ll be served English.”
Roberge called the confusion a “misunderstanding.”