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Press release
19 April 2019

Jeux de la Francophonie: Nadine Girault Has Given Up


The Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie, Ms. Nadine Girault, all but closed the door to holding the Jeux de la Francophonie during the course of studying her ministry’s budget credits. The decision was made before having received the impact study and despite having an upcoming meeting with the Mayor of Sherbrooke scheduled.

For the MNA representing Bourassa-Sauvé and Official Opposition Critic for International Relations and La Francophonie, Ms. Paule Robitaille, holding the Jeux de la Francophonie here in Quebec, would have been the perfect opportunity for the government to position itself as a leader within La Francophonie.

The Jeux de la Francophonie brings together thousands of young Francophones from all over the world and demonstrates the pride we take in living our lives in French. It is a wonderful showcase for Quebec and includes an important cultural aspect.

Minister Girault has closed the door on the games before heading back to the drawing board to find a winning formula to support the City of Sherbrooke as the host of the Jeux de la Francophonie. Discussions need to be held with the Federal Government so that the financial breakdown for the Games is sustainable for everyone. What a disappointment to see the government’s lack of ambition and willingness to help the world’s Francophonie shine from Quebec.

– Paule Robitaille, MNA representing Bourassa-Sauvé and Official Opposition Critic for International Relations and La Francophonie