Editorial: There are many reasons to oppose Bill 96

 Among the most problematic elements of the law is how it redefines anglos . The rules governing eligibility for English schooling are, essentially, to be applied more broadly with respect to the right to receive other government services in English, which, according to the Quebec Community Groups Network, will leave out 300,000 to 500,000 English-speaking Quebecers. New arrivals are to receive a six-month grace period, but that’s it.

And then there is the practical problem of whom it’s ok to serve in English. Application of this law will be unwieldy and chaotic. Another example of that can be found in the way in which the provisions affecting CEGEPs will create administrative nightmares for the colleges, along with reduced opportunities for many.

In the health and social services sector, there inevitably will be a negative impact on the availability of care in English, particularly, but not only, for those who are not rights-holding “historic anglos.” Measures to discourage making bilingualism a hiring qualification will have a predictable practical result, even where theoretical rights may exist. Given that effective communication is a prerequisite for effective care, it is essential that the government explicitly exempt this sector from the bill .

Editorial: There are many reasons to oppose Bill 96 (msn.com)