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With some minor wording changes, the regulations are essentially the same as those published in January and will require Quebec companies to adopt a “French first and predominant” policy on outdoor signs.
English is not banned, but it has to be accompanied by slogans or descriptives in French. The French must be markedly predominant. Overall, the regulations state the French text must “have a greater visual impact” than any other language on the sign.
Roberge argues most company signs already conform, but for others the clock is ticking toward that date where they will have to adjust their signs.
He has downplayed complaints from groups like the Conseil du Patronat representing businesses that the changes will cost companies millions.
In January, Roberge estimated the total cost to companies would be between $7 million and $15 million.
Roberge has retreated for now on the third part of the regulation, which covers appliances sold in Quebec. He has split that section off his initial regulation.
“We will take more time to analyze this part,” an aide to Roberge told The Gazette Wednesday. “We want to be sure it can be adhered to.”
Roberge has argued if the citizens of France and Belgium are able to “cuire” their food on stoves with French instructions, Quebecers should not have to “bake” theirs in appliances with only English markings.
Under existing law, permanent markings — such as those that are engraved, embossed or welded — are permitted to be in a language other than French unless they are related to product safety.
The draft regulations would end that exception and require French markings if they’re “necessary for the use of the product.”
The Quebec cabinet last week endorsed a final version of the rules. They were published in the June 26 edition of the government’s Gazette Officielle.
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