The Canadian Press —
June 4, 2026
Concerns over expansion of Quebec language law to adult education, vocational school
MONTREAL – The Quebec government has introduced a bill that would force people seeking training in fields such as machining, cabinet making and professional cooking to study in French.
The legislation, tabled Thursday, expands the province’s strict language laws to adult education and vocational training, drawing criticism from English school boards, community groups and a teachers union. Adult education is often for people who did not finish high school; vocational training offers short-term specialized classes in areas such as carpentry and secretarial studies.
The bill would require students to study in French unless they already qualify for English-language education under the Charter of the French Language. Critics warn the bill could restrict access to training programs and complicate efforts to address labour shortages.
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A group that represents Quebec’s English-speaking community — TALQ — said the bill risked aggravating labour shortages.
“At a time when Quebec faces persistent labour shortages in health care, construction, transportation and the skilled trades, limiting access to vocational training is difficult to justify,” said Sylvia Martin-Laforge, the group’s director general.