On 2003.07.18 18:48, Andi Payn wrote:
So, why is this system still in place? Why hasn't someone run for government specifically with the idea of getting rid of it? Or, just ignore the whole thing, use the "wrong" words without a second thought, and don't argue in front of the rest of the world lest the Quebecois will start to get the idea that they're as good as you....
Hey, at least in France it's not illegal to post a sign in English (AFAIK), or do business in English (AFAIK). Hell, Canada is a bilingual country but if an immigrant is unlucky enough to land in Montreal, it's illegal for him to send his kids to any shool with more that 5% English.
So while Quebec may not have an Academie Francaise, they work their asses off trying to prevent engligh encroachment... and IT WORKS! I have many friends from Quebec who are in college and can barely speak English, and cannot write it at all. Not that this is a good thing... my point is just that it's working (to a degree).
Austin
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Austin Acton Hon.B.Sc.
Synthetic Organic Chemist, Teaching Assistant
Department of Chemistry, York University, Toronto
MandrakeClub Volunteer (www.mandrakeclub.com)
homepage: www.groundstate.ca