Quebec delays requirement for more French languages ​​on devices

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With some minor wording changes, the regulations are essentially the same as those published in January and will require Quebec businesses to adopt a “French First and Dominant” policy for outdoor signage.

English is not forbidden, but it must be accompanied by slogans or descriptions in French. French people must be clearly dominant. Overall, VolThe regulations state that text in French must “have greater visual impact” than any other language on the sign.

Roberge says most business signs are already compliant, but for others, the clock is ticking toward the date when they will need to adjust their signs.

He downplayed complaints from groups such as the Conseil du Patronat representing businesses that the changes would cost companies millions.

In January, Roberge estimated that the total costs to the companies would be between $7 million and $15 million.

Roberge has for now withdrawn from the third part of the regulation, which applies to devices sold in Quebec. It separated this section from its original regulations.

“It will take us longer to analyze this part,” an aide to Roberge told The Gazette Wednesday. “We want to make sure it can be followed.”

Roberge argued whether while French and Belgian citizens can “prepare” food on the stove according to French instructions, Quebecers should not be forced to “bake” food in appliances with only English markings.

Under current law, permanent markings – e.g. engraved, embossed or welded – may be in a language other than French unless they are related to product safety.

The draft regulations would eliminate this exception and require French markings if they are “necessary for the use of the product.”

Last week, the Quebec government approved the final version of the regulations. They were published in the June 26 government edition of the Gazette Officielle.

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