Ontario Budget 2025–2026: A Budget That Speaks Loudly—Just Not in French

Ottawa, May 15, 2025 – The Assemblée de la francophonie de l’Ontario (AFO) acknowledges the strong leadership demonstrated by the provincial government in a particularly challenging economic context, especially regarding investments in primary health care. However, we find regrettable the notable absence of concrete measures to address the specific needs of Ontario’s 1.5 million Francophones and Francophiles.

Despite clear, collaborative, and government-aligned recommendations submitted during the pre-budget consultations, none appear to have been taken into account. Key sectors for the vitality of Ontario’s Francophonie—such as education, culture, social services, economic development, and international Francophonie—seem to have been sidelined.

“The government is investing in building the province’s economic resilience. But by failing to incorporate a Francophone perspective, it directly weakens the ability of part of its population to fully contribute to its recovery,” said Fabien Hébert, President of the AFO.

Although Francophone businesses account for 12% of Ontario’s GDP while representing only 5% of the population, no specific measures are targeted toward them. Furthermore, no strategy has been outlined to mobilize francophone and  bilingual labour.

“Francophone markets represent a major opportunity for Ontario. It is difficult to understand why this budget fails to present a strategy to capitalize on them,” added Fabien Hébert.

The budget for the Ministry of Francophone Affairs shows a 19.2% reduction, amounting to $2.7 million. This cut also raises concerns. The lack of transparency regarding the redirection of funds, leaves the community in a state of uncertainty—especially considering that the 2024 budget included a dedicated section on Supporting Ontario’s Francophone Community.

“It is time for Francophones to stop being viewed as a cost, and instead be recognized as a strategic investment in the province’s future—especially in economic terms. While Manitoba is preparing to become officially bilingual, the province of Ontario seems to have forgotten the largest francophone community outside Quebec,” concluded Mr. Hébert.

The AFO is calling on the government to clarify how the recommendations from its pre-budget submission were taken into account and urges swift adjustments to ensure that Ontario’s Francophones can fully contribute to the province’s prosperity.

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CONTACT INFORMATION:
Grace Selenga
Corporate Communications Manager
(613) 878-3026
gselenga@monassemblee.ca