‘Common sense prevailed’: Burgundy Lion pub can keep sign after Quebec’s language watchdog admits mistake

Quebec’s language watchdog has admitted it was wrong to ask the Burgundy Lion pub to alter its sign in a dispute that drew public attention this week.

By Harry North.

The Office québécois de la langue française had initially inspected the pub and co-owner Toby Lyle said he was told that the word “Burgundy” on its sign needed more prominent French under new language rules. Lyle argued the name reflected the neighbourhood’s history and cultural identity.

It marked the latest clash in Premier François Legault’s drive to bolster French in public life. Since sweeping new rules under Bill 96 took effect in June, many business owners have been grappling with the costs and bureaucracy of complying. The law requires any non-French name on a sign to be paired with larger French text, covering anything visible from outside. Anonymous complaints can trigger inspections, and violations carry fines of up to $30,000 a day.

Lyle said the meeting with the OQLF “soured” almost immediately when the inspector asked how to pronounce his last name.