French Language Health Services

The French Language Services Act, 1986 (FLSA)

The French Language Services Act (FLSA) guarantees an individual's right to receive services in French from Government of Ontario ministries and agencies in 26 designated areas, and at government head offices. The FLSA provides legislative and political recognition of rights acquired over 400 years in Ontario.

The right to receive services in French: French-language services are not limited to correspondence, telephone or translation procedures. The needs of the French-speaking population are taken into account in the development and implementation of programs, policies and procedures. Furthermore, services received in French must be equivalent to those offered in English, offered at the same time, and of the same quality.

Government of Ontario ministries and agencies: The FLSA applies equally to all Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care classified/statutory agencies for which the majority of members of the board are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor-in-Council such as Home and Community Care Support Services.

26 designated areas: In 1986, the FLSA designated specific areas where FLS must be provided by government agencies. Regulation 407/94 designates additional areas. About 80% of Franco-Ontarians live in a designated area.

For an area to obtain designation, French-speaking residents must usually make up at least 10% of the population. In urban centres, the French-speaking population must usually be at least 5,000.