Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (CAPF)

The executive committee of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) met by videoconference on May 31, 2024. The purpose of the meeting was to prepare for the next meeting of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians. The meeting will take place in Montréal (Quebec) on July 6, 2024, as part of the 49th Annual Session of the APF, hosted by the Parliament of Canada. The executive committee was informed of the status of reports currently being worked on and confirmed the agenda for the July 2024 meeting. Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, took part in the meeting.

In order to be eligible to vote, parliamentarians should be members of the association at least seven days prior to the SGM.

The Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) Network of Women Parliamentarians (Network) was formed in 2002 to promote greater participation of women in political, economic, social and cultural life across the francophone world. The Network met in Cotonou, Benin, from April 17 to 19, 2024. Member of Parliament Marie-France Lalonde attended the meeting virtually for the Canadian Branch of the APF. She presented a new draft report theme on family patrimony and francophone women, a proposal that was approved by the Network. Ms. Lalonde announced that she would table an initial draft report in July 2024 at the Annual Session of the APF. The Network also heard a presentation from Gladys Edith O. Campbell Guedegbe, President of the Chambre des Notaires du Bénin, about access to inheritance and land rights for women in Benin.

In order to be eligible to vote, parliamentarians should be members of the association at least seven days prior to the AGM.

Report – Meeting with representatives of the Fédération de la jeunesse canadienne-française

For more information, see the report: Report of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie

The Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) Regional Assembly of the Americas and the Conference of Branch Chairs were held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from September 4–7, 2023. The Canadian delegation was composed of seven parliamentarians: five Members and two Senators.

Representatives from nine branches, the Americas secretariat and the APF secretariat were also in attendance.

The theme of the Regional Assembly of the Americas was the role of French at school, at work and in politics. Three panels were held around this theme. The work led to the adoption of three declarations:
• declaration to promote the French and Creole languages;
• declaration of solidarity with the Africa Region; and
• declaration of commitment by the Americas Region.

The declaration of solidarity with the Africa Region was tabled by the Canadian Branch.

The Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) held its Bureau meeting and 48th Annual Session in Tbilisi, Georgia, from July 4–8, 2023. The Canadian delegation was composed of five parliamentarians: one Senator and four Members.

Over 200 participants from 40 APF branches took part in the proceedings. Representatives from several organizations related to the Francophonie were also in attendance.

The theme of the 48th Annual Session was citizen mobility in the Francophonie, put forward by the Georgia Branch. The APF also adopted a declaration on this theme.

Among the resolutions the APF adopted, three resulted directly from the Canadian Branch’s work:
- impacts of climate change on island, coastal and riparian territories;
- promotion and use of French in francophone nations; and
- period poverty in francophone nations.

On June 20, the first joint political committee meeting between the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) and the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) was held by videoconference at the invitation of Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of La Francophonie. Other participants included Caroline St-Hilaire, OIF Administrator, and APF representatives Francis Drouin, MP, President; Faustin Boukoubi, First Vice-President; and Bruno Fuchs, Parliamentary Secretary General.

On May 23, the Permanent Delegation of the APF Bureau—consisting of Francis Drouin, President; Bruno Fuchs, Parliamentary Secretary General; Faustin Boukoubi, First Vice-President; Mars Di Bartolomeo, Treasurer; and the six Vice-Presidents—met by videoconference. Participants discussed upcoming major APF meetings and international events in 2023, such as the 48th Session of the APF, the Regional Francophone Youth Parliament in Benin and the Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie in Yaoundé. Discussions also touched on updating the budget to account for new resources and revising APF regulations when future statutes are adopted.

The Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) participated in the meeting of the Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee held in Ottawa, Canada, on April 24 and 25, 2023.
Parliamentarians representing 10 branches of the APF met at the Parliament of Canada for this meeting.
At the beginning of the meeting, Francis Drouin, Member of Parliament, Chair of the Canadian Branch and President of the APF, gave the opening remarks. Over the course of its meeting, the Committee considered several draft reports. Bernard Généreux, Member of Parliament, presented a draft version of the Canadian Branch’s report on the use of French in francophone nations. Committee members also had the opportunity to learn more about the Canadian perspective on certain matters involving the Committee’s mandate: French-language education in a minority context, French-language training for newcomers to Canada, the restitution of cultural property in Canada, and educational programs offered by the Parliament of Canada.

The Conference of Branch Chairs (CBC) of the America Region of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) oversees the implementation of decisions made by the Regional Assembly of the America. These decisions seek to promote the French language and francophone culture among the member branches. The CBC met by videoconference on 13 March 2023. Two members of the Canadian Branch of the APF participated in the meeting: Mr. Francis Drouin, MP, participated in his role as APF President, and Mr. Darrell Samson, MP, participated in his role as Vice-Chair of the Canadian Branch.

For more information, see report:Report of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie

For more information, see report:Report of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie

For more information, see report:Report of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie

3:30 p.m.

To be eligible to vote at the AGM the deadline for membership for this association is 7 days before the meeting.

The Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie brings together 90 parliaments and branches to discuss topics of interest for the Francophonie. The meeting is informal and is intended to inform the presidents of various topics of interest for the branches.

Marie-France Lalonde, member, and Joël Godin, member and chair of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee, attended the meeting virtually.

Members were informed of the decisions made at the Libreville Bureau meeting held on February 27 and 28. They were also informed of the climate emergency in Madagascar caused by cyclone Batsirai. A second cyclone, Emnati, is expected to touch down soon. A call for solidarity was also made. A call for nominations was also made for the 47th Session and the 9th Francophone Youth Parliament of July 2022.

The members discussed the young Francophone ambassadors’ project, and Marie-France Lalonde called for more clarification between this program and the Francophone Youth Parliament. Joël Godin requested that more detailed planning be done for that project and for a presentation on it at the next Bureau.

The Administrative Secretary General, Damien Cesselin, discussed the consideration of branch contributions to the upcoming APF strategic framework 2023–2026. Methodology will be developed to enable branches to actively participate in the next framework. Joël Godin and Marie-France Lalonde reiterated the Canadian branch’s desire for better defined, measurable objectives and for the latest objective attainment indicators also be included in the development of the new strategic framework.

Mention was also made of a project shared by various APF branches and the Francophone Group of Ambassadors.

The Honourable Dennis Dawson, Senator, attended the meeting of the Working Group on Peacekeeping Missions of the Political Committee of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie held on 17 February 2022 via videoconference. The purpose of this working group is to oversee the United Nations peacekeeping missions report.

The Rapporteur of the working group went over his discussions with the Boutros-Ghali Peacekeeping Observatory, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the French Ministry for the Armed Forces. He gave an overview of the many peacekeeping missions around the world, several of them in francophone regions.

Senator Dawson suggested that the working group invite Canadian security and peacekeeping experts to share their observations. He raised the use of French in such operations under the authority of the United Nations. On this issue, the Rapporteur pointed to the work of the Boutros-Ghali Observatory and the recently arranged meetings with the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie.

Senator Dawson also said that this ties into the broader issue of respect for multilingualism within international organizations, which is being studied by the Political Committee and the Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee. He concluded by stressing the importance of raising awareness of this issue among all partners and member branches.

APF Bureau meeting – January 27 to 28, 2022

The Bureau monitors the implementation of decisions made by the Plenary Assembly of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF), for which it exercises delegated authority. It ensures the implementation of the motions passed, the resolutions adopted and the opinions and recommendations issued by the Plenary Assembly. In this respect, it may make any decision it deems useful. It reviews, pursuant to the General Secretariat’s report, issues relating to the admission of sections and to changes in their status. It passes the Assembly’s budget.

Francis Drouin, M.P., Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice President of the APF, and Marie France Lalonde and Senator Éric Forest, members of the CAPF executive committee, participated virtually in the hybrid meeting held in Libreville, Gabon.

The APF Bureau heard from Geoffroy Montpetit from the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. He discussed the OIF APF partnership and opportunities for cooperation between the two institutions. A number of activity reports were presented, including the activity report of the APF Parliamentary Secretary General. The APF’s cooperation programs were also reviewed. The Treasurer’s report on the draft budget for 2022 was considered, in addition to a review of the political situation in the francophone world and various institutional projects.

The members in attendance also heard the activity reports from the presidents of the APF’s commissions and networks and from its mission leaders.

Working meeting with the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie – January 20, 2022

Francis Drouin, MP, Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-President of the APF, met with the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) and its Secretary General, Her Excellency Louise Mushikiwabo, to discuss pathways for efficient collaboration as part of his mandate as First Vice-President of the APF.

Mr. Drouin led a delegation of international parliamentarians, who are also senior APF officials, in a discussion on the direction of APF initiatives and the common objectives of the APF and the OIF. Participants also discussed financial management and interparliamentary co-operation programs.

Lastly, it was agreed that these matters would be followed up on in advance of the APF’s annual budget.

On 13 and 14 October 2021, the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF), represented by Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, participated in “Le parlementarisme féminin en France et au Québec : où en sommes-nous?”, a symposium about women in parliament in France and Quebec hosted by the Commission de la mémoire franco-québécoise.

The symposium was chaired by Pauline Marois, who was the Premier of Quebec from 2012 to 2014. This event provided a historical overview of women’s right to vote and a look at the representation of women in Quebec’s National Assembly, the French Senate and France’s National Assembly. Speakers also addressed topics such as the under-representation of women in electoral politics in both France and Quebec and the importance of gender parity within parliaments.

The Plenary Assembly of the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) delegates authority to the Bureau to oversee the execution of its decisions. The Bureau is responsible for implementing the Plenary Assembly’s motions, resolutions, opinions and recommendations and may make any decision that will be helpful in that regard. Based on reports from the Secretariat General, it considers issues concerning the admission of branches and changes to their status, and it adopts the APF’s budget.

Francis Drouin, MP, Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice President of the APF; Chris d’Entremont, Vice-Chair of the Canadian Branch; and Joël Godin, MP and Chair of the APF Parliamentary Affairs Committee, attended the meeting virtually. Mr. Drouin also chaired the meeting.

Several activity reports were tabled, including the activity report from the APF Parliamentary Secretary General, and the cooperation programs were reviewed. The Treasurer’s report on the accounts for 2020 was also considered, along with the review of the political situation throughout the Francophony.

Joël Godin, Chair of the APF Parliamentary Affairs Committee, spoke about the order of priority for certain APF projects and its budgetary management. Francis Drouin presented a proposed partnership with the Réseau francophone d’éthique et de déontologie parlementaires, as well as the recipient of the Geoffrey Dieudonné award.

Lastly, the chairs of the various committees and networks presented the results of their deliberations. Heads of mission of the various APF regions also provided an update on their respective activities.

The Honourable Éric Forest, Senator, participated in the meeting of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie’s (APF) Cooperation and Development Committee by videoconference on 6 October 2021. Senator Forest proposed that a new project be developed on the impact of climate change on island, coastal and waterfront territories in francophone areas. The Committee approved this proposal.

The Committee also discussed the economic situation in La Francophonie. Senator Forest pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate economic impact on some population groups in Canada, such as women. The Committee also adopted a resolution on rural land use and vitality, and it discussed matters involving climate change and sustainable development in the context of COVID-19, as well as international trade negotiations carried out within the framework of the World Trade Organization.

The purpose of the Association canadienne d’éducation de langue française (ACELF) is to help young people to meaningfully incorporate the French language and francophone culture into their lives. The Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie was represented by Senator Éric Forest, as an observer. The ACELF presented its activities for the coming year to its members, tabled its financial statements and elected its new executive. The organization presented the training and educational tools offered to its members, particularly for linguistic security and early childhood education, and expressed a desire for increased co-operation with young people. The ACELF also discussed its various activities and webinars and announced that it had updated its website and blog. In addition, the organization paid tribute to some of its members. In closing, the ACELF invited its members to attend major events in 2022, including a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of its Éducation et francophonie review and its 75th Anniversary.

The APF’s Regional Assembly of the Americas brings together all the branches in the Americas region. The Assembly provides branches with the opportunity to meet and discuss themes specific to La Francophonie. The Regional Assembly was held by videoconference from August 3 to 5, 2021. The participating parliamentarians included Chair of the Canadian Branch of the APF Francis Drouin, Marie-France Lalonde, Kristina Michaud, Senator Jean-Guy Dagenais, Vice-chair Chris d’Entremont, Joel Godin and Darrell Samson. The members first heard presentations by Emmanuel Nahimana, Project Manager for Immigration Francophone Nouvelle-Écosse, and Laura Huyng Lê, Economic Immigration Officer, Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse, on francophone immigration. They were followed by Marie-Claude Rioux, Executive Director of the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse, who gave a presentation on language security. Adrien Comeau, student in education at Université Sainte-Anne; Karim Amedjkouh, Cultural Diversity and Human Rights Coordinator at the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial; and Stéphanie Craig, Consultant in Francization and Oral Language Skills Development at the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial, gave presentations to the Regional Assembly of the Americas on francophone minority education.

The Conference of Branch Chairs (CBC) (Americas Region) of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) carries out the decisions of the Regional Assembly of the Americas. These decisions all seek to encourage the promotion of the French language and francophone culture among the member branches. The CBC met by videoconference on August 3, 2021. Francis Drouin, MP, participated in this meeting as Chair of the Canadian Branch of the APF. At the meeting, Americas Region Chargé de mission Lena Metlege Diab (MLA, Nova Scotia) reported on last year’s activities and updated the members on upcoming activities. She also presented the Region’s finances. The role of the Americas Region was also discussed in the context of the APF’s international activities. Mr. Drouin expressed the hope that the Region would be more involved in these activities in the leadup to Canada’s presidency of the APF in 2022. The members also discussed the revision of the Region’s Constitution. The Branch Chairs (Americas Region) also discussed ways to help and support the Haitian Branch as a member of the APF.

A few APF member branches met to discuss the APF Opinion that will be presented to the heads of state who are attending the meeting at the upcoming Summit of La Francophonie in Djerba, Tunisia. The APF Opinion is a document of the l’Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie that provides suggested measures on a variety of issues, particularly the promotion of the French language and culture. The APF Opinion is moved, debated and adopted at the summer Annual Session that precedes the Summit of La Francophonie, which is held every two years in the fall. Marie-France Lalonde, Francis Drouin, President of the Canadian Branch, and Senator Jean Guy Dagenais attended the meeting and presented the branch’s suggested modifications to the Opinion, including a suggestion to work with local governments in order to improve access to digital infrastructure and respect the concept of social licence when deploying communication technologies. A final version of the Opinion will be submitted to the branches shortly.

Meeting of the Young Parliamentarians Network of APF – July 1, 2021 Kristina Michaud, MP, participated in the APF Young Parliamentarians Network meeting on July 1, 2021, by videoconference. Ms. Michaud presented the second draft of the Canadian Branch of the APF’s report on youth participation in parliamentary life. This new draft includes responses of some APF branches to the questionnaire on youth parliamentary participation prepared by the Canadian Branch. Ms. Michaud encouraged branches that had not yet responded to the questionnaire to do so, reiterating that the report would only be enhanced by additional perspectives from all corners of the Francophonie. During the meeting, the network heard from several speakers on various themes related to francophone youth. It heard from an expert from the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie on the Sahel youth radio project, a representative from the Inter-Parliamentary Union on its most recent report on youth representation in national parliaments, and from three young francophone entrepreneurs. The network also commented on the APF’s opinion to be given at the upcoming Summit of La Francophonie, and discussed themes the network could explore in the future.

The Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) Network of Women Parliamentarians was formed in 2002 to promote greater participation of women in political, economic, social and cultural life both at the national level and across the francophone world. On June 30, the APF’s Network of Women Parliamentarians met by videoconference. Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, attended on behalf of the Canadian Branch of the APF. As rapporteur, Ms. Lalonde presented the Canadian Branch’s report on the economic empowerment of francophone women. The rapporteurs from the APF’s various committees and networks conduct studies and ask the member branches to provide input on the topics chosen. Ms. Lalonde also proposed to organize a virtual conference on the same subject in the fall of 2021, which was approved. The parliamentarians discussed the potential new policy to prevent and address harassment in the APF, women’s role in extractive industries and their contribution to the fight against COVID-19. Members also debated future report topics for the Network. Ms. Lalonde suggested that the Canadian Branch help the New Caledonia Branch prepare a report proposal on discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people (LGBTI).

Meeting of the APF Political Committee – June 29, 2021 The Honourable Dennis Dawson, Senator, virtually attended the meeting of the APF Political Committee on June 29, 2021. Senator Dawson proposed a topic for the Canadian Branch of the APF’s next report: the use of French in international organizations. The committee accepted his proposal and decided that the project would be conducted jointly with the Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee. In this meeting, the committee examined the political situation in francophone countries with special attention to the Central African Republic, Mali and Chad. The Malian and Chadian branches were de facto suspended from the APF because of the recent dissolution of their national assemblies. The committee then heard presentations from invited international experts on artificial intelligence and the 20th anniversary of the Bamako Declaration, a key text of La Francophonie affirming the commitment to democracy, the rule of law and the defence of freedoms in the francophone world. Lastly, the committee was updated on the other reports being drafted on peacekeeping operations and the prerogatives of parliaments in emergency situations.

The Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee examines issues relating to cultural expression in French, education, training, communication, information and communications technologies and audiovisual media. Darrell Samson, MP, attended the meeting of the APF’s Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee to discuss school retention, sport and La Francophonie, as well as the CECAC’s contribution to the upcoming Summit of La Francophonie in Djerba. The members in attendance heard reports on the activities of the CECAC and of the Parliamentary Network to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Mr. Samson also informed the CECAC about the tabling in the House of Commons of Bill C-32 (official languages), the work on Bill C-10 (broadcasting), and the virtual functioning of Canada’s Parliament. The CECAC also heard presentations from a panel of international experts on how young people are using media, education for global citizenship and solidarity, and the protection of cultural heritage, particularly in Armenia. The CECAC also followed up on resolutions adopted in recent months, including those on education in a crisis, student mobility and the educational use of digital tools. The meeting concluded with a discussion on topics related to the next CECAC meeting.

The Permanent Delegation of the APF Bureau meets when convened by the APF’s President. It has the power to decide on exceptional administrative matters. It also monitors the implementation of interparliamentary cooperation programs in accordance with the guidelines given by the Plenary Assembly and presents the APF’s programs and annual budget to the Bureau. Between meetings of the Bureau, it exercises all the powers of the Bureau and reports on its activities at the next Bureau meeting. In light of the pandemic and the difficulties of holding the APF Annual Session with its members on the dates scheduled, the parliamentarians, including Francis Drouin, Chair of the Canadian Branch, met urgently to discuss alternative solutions.

Summit on the Rapprochement of Canadian Francophonies—June 12 and 17, 2021 The parliamentary delegation of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) that took part in the summit on the rapprochement of Canadian francophonies, held by videoconference on June 12 and 17, 2021, consisted of Members of Parliament Francis Drouin, Marie-France Lalonde, Darrell Samson, Joël Godin and the Honourable Steven Blaney, and the Honourable Senators Jean-Guy Dagenais and Éric Forest. The delegates heard from stakeholders and discussed the relationship between Quebec and Canada’s francophones, including a historical overview of the milestones in relations between the country’s francophone communities. The discussions also touched on the need for networking among Canadian francophones. The stakeholders saw this as a useful way of sustaining the vitality of French in Canada. In addition, the presentations and discussions addressed the need for a new solidarity among francophones. The participants expressed their views on ways of improving mutual support among Canada’s francophones and identified opportunities for future cooperation. Another topic of conversation was living in French in Canada. The participants also described the challenges they face and tangible ways of bringing Quebec and Canada’s francophone communities closer together, including in the field of education. The stakeholders discussed the availability of French-language learning materials in some provinces and noted opportunities for cooperation in this area.

Meeting of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee (PAC) – May 31, 2021 The parliamentary delegation of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) that participated in the meeting of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee (the Committee) of the APF by videoconference on 31 May 2021 was composed of Chris d’Entremont, MP and Joël Godin, MP, Chair of the Commission. Three draft reports were reviewed during the meeting. Mr. d’Entremont presented the second version of the Canadian Branch of the APF’s report on parliaments in francophone nations and the pandemic. This version of the report included the addition of a section that reiterates the crucial role that parliaments play in emergencies and additional questionnaire responses from APF branches. Mr. d’Entremont and Mr. Godin both asked the branches that had not yet responded to the questionnaire to do so. The Committee also addressed various topics, including the issue of digital technology and fake news, and the impact of fake news on parliamentarians’ work. It also discussed the subjects of its next reports and the APF’s future Avis on the Summit of heads of state of the Francophonie. The Committee was also informed of the cooperation activities undertaken so far in 2021 and reviewed the APF’s draft conventions with outside institutions.

Conference on Digitalization May 5-6, 2021 On May 5-6, 2021, the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) held a conference on how francophone parliaments can regulate digitalization. Mr. Francis Drouin, M.P., Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-Chair of the APF, who acted as moderator, Ms. Marie-France Lalonde, Mr. Joël Godin and Mr. Chris d’Entremont participated in the various discussions. The conference served as a lead up to the drafting of the APF’s Opinion at the Francophonie Summit in Djerba in November. During this two-day event, francophone parliamentarians as well as several experts discussed: • parliamentarians’ interest in digital governance; • democracy in the digital age: fundamental freedoms and public accountability; • francophone parliamentarians and digital giants; • the public and digitalization: access, protection and use; and • discoverability of francophone content. Following discussions, the francophone parliamentarians made proposals for priority areas of francophone actions, including: • equitable access to the Internet and the urgent need to reduce the digital divide through incentives to fund infrastructure; • democratic transparency through digital technology; • the need to harmonize legislation on digital issues throughout the Francophonie; • the systematic integration of digitalization into public policy; and • training in new digital practices, innovation, IT and creativity.

The Working Group of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) is mandated to develop a policy to prevent and manage harassment within the APF. The Working Group met by videoconference on 4 May 2021. Marie-France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, participated in this meeting on behalf of the Canadian Branch of the APF. At the meeting, the Working Group continued to study various provisions that are typically included in anti-harassment policies. The Working Group discussed the issue of incorporating cyber-harassment into proposed policy definitions, the importance of harassment prevention and awareness measures, as well as informal and formal resolution mechanisms.

Webinar of the Francophone Gender Equality Network May 4, 2021 On May 4th, the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) participated in the Francophone Gender Equality Network webinar, the theme of which was: “Intergenerational Political Dialogue: The Political Leadership of Young Francophone Women for the Next Generation and Including Youth in Decision-Making Processes.” Kristina Michaud, MP and rapporteur for the APF’s Network of Young Parliamentarians, represented the Canadian Branch at this event, which brought together 45 participants from various countries. Ms. Michaud discussed the role of young APF members in politics and their contributions. She also pointed out the following barriers to youth participation in politics: limited age, limited political representation, the need to start a family, lack of confidence, and social pressures and limitations. She proposed some solutions to these problems, including implementing a quota for young parliamentarians, which would promote the participation of women in politics; lowering the age of eligibility; creating more youth political groups; and an open-minded public that is willing to place greater trust in youth. We must continue to raise awareness among the public and the world’s political leaders in order to encourage them to give young people a stronger voice.

Meeting of the Working Group of the Network of Women Parliamentarians – March 19, 2021 The Working Group of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) is mandated to develop a policy to prevent and manage harassment within the APF. The Working Group met by videoconference on 19 March 2021. Marie France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, participated in that meeting on behalf of the Canadian Branch of the APF. During that meeting, Claudia Rousseau, Director of Living Together and Harassment Prevention at the National Assembly of Quebec, gave a presentation on the implementation of harassment prevention policies in parliaments and the various components that these policies generally include. The parliamentarians also discussed the definition of what constitutes harassment, the scope of a possible APF harassment prevention policy framework, the importance of prevention and awareness activities and the various existing mechanisms for resolving harassment complaints.

The Conference of Branch Chairs (CBC) of the America Region of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) ensures the implementation of decisions made by the Regional Assembly of the America Region. These decisions all seek to encourage the promotion of the French language and francophone culture among the member branches. The CBC met by videoconference on 15 March 2021. Francis Drouin, Member of Parliament, participated in this meeting as Chair of the Canadian Branch of the APF. At the meeting, the America Region Chargé de mission, Lena Metlege Diab (Member of the Legislative Assembly, Nova Scotia) reported on last year’s activities. Mr. Drouin shared with parliamentarians the technological innovations created to deal with COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges, particularly the advent of electronic voting through a digital application. Also discussed were issues such as the status of dues payments and the implementation of the 2019–2022 work plan for consolidating the America Region. Lastly, the CBC discussed the upcoming review of its by-laws, with the process expected to begin in summer 2021.

The Working Group of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) is mandated to develop a policy to prevent and manage harassment within the APF. The Working Group met by videoconference on 8 December 2020. Marie France Lalonde, Member of Parliament, attended the meeting on behalf of the Canadian Branch of the APF. At this meeting, the Chair of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the APF, Maryse Gaudreault (Member of the Legislative Assembly, Quebec), presented the draft policy framework to the Working Group. Penelope Dune, an expert on anti-harassment policies at the Council of Europe, also made a presentation on anti-harassment initiatives at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Finally, the parliamentarians went over a draft common definition of harassment.

Meeting of the Permanent Delegation of the APF Bureau – November 30, 2020 The permanent delegation of the APF Bureau meets when convened by the APF’s President. It has the power to decide on exceptional administrative matters. It also monitors the implementation of interparliamentary cooperation programs in accordance with the guidelines given by the plenary assembly and presents the APF’s programs and annual budget to the Bureau. Between meetings of the Bureau, it exercises all the powers of the Bureau and reports on its activities at the next Bureau meeting. MP Francis Drouin, President of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-President of the APF, chaired the meeting on behalf of the APF’s President. The members of the permanent delegation discussed the political situations in Armenia, Lebanon and Mali. They also discussed security in the G5 Sahel region and a partnership agreement between the APF and the Interparliamentary Committee-G5 Sahel. It was also decided to send future APF missions to Armenia, Lebanon and Mali when delegates’ security can be assured. Members also discussed the election observation mission to Côte d’Ivoire and the rights of Ivorian parliamentarians. They also discussed the OIF fact-finding mission on the November 22 presidential and legislative elections in Burkina Faso. Together with APF Parliamentary Secretary General Jacques Krabal, the mission studied the pre-election phase and voting and counting. The defense of French and multilingualism within European institutions and on the APF’s digital portal was also touched on, as well as the international conference planned in partnership with the AUF. Finally, it was proposed that the APF should carry out two types of missions in the future: political missions and thematic missions.

Meeting of the Ministerial Conference of the Francophonie – November 24, 2020 MP Francis Drouin, President of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-President of the APF, participated in the 37th Ministerial Conference of the Francophonie on behalf of the APF’s President. The Ministerial Conference of the Francophonie (MCF) is one of three bodies enshrined in the Francophonie Charter, along with the Summit and the Permanent Council of the Francophonie (PCF). The MCF ensures the political continuity of the Summit. Members listened to the report of the Francophonie Secretary General, Louise Mushikiwabo, who is also the PCF President, on political and economic issues as well as cooperation, administrative and financial issues dealt with during the PCF’s meetings in 2020. The Secretary General also addressed the challenges of the Covid 19 pandemic for the Francophonie and “La Francophonie avec Elles” fund. She also raised the issue of respect for multilingualism within international organizations in the particular context of the pandemic. Members also heard from several ministers of Francophonie member countries on the impact of Covid 19 in their respective countries. Mr. Drouin, replacing the APF’s President, spoke at the conference on the impact of the health crisis on the APF’s work and called on the Francophonie to rally around its values of solidarity and humanism and embrace a new post-pandemic multilateralism.

Parliamentary Network on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (CECAC): November 23–24, 2020 The Parliamentary Network on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) is a forum to share and debate ideas and strategies to fight the three diseases. The network is also a place to raise awareness and promote actions and activities in this fight, as well as a tool for French-speaking parliaments to share information and exert influence. Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe, MP and Vice-Chair of the Canadian Branch of the APF, participated in the work of the network. During a round table discussion, he reported on the COVID 19 pandemic’s impact on Canada’s health care systems and presented the most recent developments regarding HIV/AIDS in Canada. The network also heard from several French-speaking experts on the fight against HIV/AIDS and malaria, the role of international governance in public health and the pandemic response, the deteriorating situation of the rights of sex workers in French-speaking African countries during the COVID-19 pandemic and the expansion of health care and vaccination efforts. Lastly, the network adopted a declaration to emphasize the importance of a universal and equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. The network is calling on APF member parliamentarians to speak up in their legislative assemblies and interparliamentary associations and advocate for universal access to vaccines and products to prevent, detect and treat COVID-19. The network is also urging heads of state and governments to define COVID-19 vaccines as “universal public goods.” The attendees also discussed the planning of the next meeting.

The Political Committee of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) considers policy issues and the rule of law in francophone countries, relations with the institutions of La Francophonie, the APF’s overall priorities, and legal issues concerning its statutes and enforcement provisions. With Senator Dennis Dawson, rapporteur of the Canadian Branch, in attendance, the committee addressed a number of topics. Rapporteurs from the APF’s various committees and networks discussed study subjects and asked member branches to participate, notably through the completion of surveys on their practices in those areas. The committee’s meeting began with an overview of the political situation in each APF member country. The situations in Lebanon and Mali were monitored closely in association with the APF’s democratic vigilance mechanisms. The committee heard from Antoine Michon, Director of Political Affairs and Democratic Governance at the International Organisation internationale de La Francophonie. Senator Dennis Dawson then went on to present his report on the freedom of the press in francophone countries and suggested creating a new francophone organization dedicated to the freedom of the press. Lastly, participants reviewed a draft report on the relationship between the executive and legislative powers in times of crisis, were briefed on the evolution of the death sentence in francophone countries, and considered requests from new APF members. A draft agenda for the committee’s next meeting was adopted.

Meeting of the Network of Women Parliamentarians – October 6, 2020 In 2002, the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) created the Network of Women Parliamentarians to encourage women to participate more in political, economic, social and cultural life, both at a national level and across all francophone countries. Member of Parliament Marie-France Lalonde attended the videoconference meeting of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the APF, held October 6, 2020. Parliamentarians from more than 20 APF branches participated. Ms. Lalonde, rapporteur for the Canadian Branch of the APF, presented the report of the Canadian Branch of the APF on cyberviolence against women and children, as well as a proposal for a report by the Canadian Branch on the economic empowerment of francophone women. Rapporteurs from the APF’s various committees and networks discussed study subjects and asked member branches to participate, particularly through answering a survey on their practices in those areas. In addition to these two issues, the parliamentarians discussed a future policy on preventing and addressing harassment within the APF, women’s role in the extractive industries, and women’s contribution to the fight against COVID 19. To conclude, members discussed subjects on the agenda for the Network’s next meeting.

Conference of Presidencies of the Americas Region – October 5, 2020 MPs Francis Drouin and Chris d’Entremont both participated in the Conference of Presidencies of the Americas Region of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) on October 5, 2020. The chargé de mission for the Americas Region reported on the past year’s activities and financial situation. Parliamentarians discussed possible steps to implement the APF’s strategic framework, including the possibility of creating an institutional sustainability plan for the organization. The Nova Scotia branch gave an update on preparations for the 36th Session of the Americas Regional Assembly, scheduled to take place in Halifax in August 2021.

The Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee considers issues relating to cultural expression in French, education, training, communication, information and communications technologies and audiovisual media. MP Richard Martel represented the Canadian Branch at the committee meeting. Members in attendance were briefed on the reports on activities for both the committee and the Parliamentary Network to fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The committee also heard from Prof. Abdel Rahamane Baba-Moussa, General Secretary of the Conference of the Ministers of Education of French speaking countries (CONFEMEN); Georges Malamoud, Strategic Advisor to the Rector of the Agence Universitaire Francophonie (AUF); and Arnaud Mercier, Professor of Communication and Information Science, Université Paris 2 Panthéon-Assas on the theme, “Disinformation in health: reflections during the COVID-19 pandemic.” Committee members also considered an interim report on teaching during a crisis, received an update on the implementation of the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, and shared how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the sphere of culture. To conclude, members discussed subjects on the agenda for the Committee’s next meeting.

Bureau Meeting – July 6 The Bureau is delegated the authority to oversee the implementation of Plenary Assembly decisions. It ensures the implementation of the motions adopted, the resolutions made, and the advice and recommendations issued by the Plenary Assembly, and it can make any decisions it deems useful for that purpose. It considers, on the basis of a report from the General Secretariat, issues involving branch membership and changes to their status, and it adopts the APF’s budget. Francis Drouin, MP, Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-Chair of the APF; Chris d’Entremont, Vice-Chair of the Canadian Branch; and Joël Godin, MP and Chair of the APF’s Parliamentary Affairs Committee, each participated in this meeting by videoconference. Parliamentarians in attendance discussed new requests for APF membership. Branches represented at the meeting gave status updates on the pandemic situation in their nations, with Mr. Drouin giving the update on the situation in Canada, and they also discussed the effects of the pandemic on the general operation of the APF’s International Secretariat. Several reports on activities were presented, and the report on activities for the Parliamentary Secretary General and the cooperation programs were considered. The Treasurer’s report on the 2019 accounts was also discussed. Lastly, the chairs of the committees and networks shared the results of their proceedings: Mr. Godin, the Chair of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee, gave an update on the work of his committee, including a Canadian initiative under the leadership of Mr. d’Entremont on how parliaments are operating during the pandemic. Lastly, an update was given on the status of the APF’s statute review and the APF’s regional activities.

Meeting of the Political Committee (PC) – June 29, 2020 The Political Committee of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) considers political issues, the rule of law in francophone countries, relations with francophone institutions, the APF’s overall priorities, and legal issues concerning its statutes and enforcement provisions. With the honourable Dennis Dawson, Senator and rapporteur of the Canadian Branch, in attendance, the committee addressed a number of topics. Rapporteurs from the Canadian Branch asked the other APF branches to answer a survey that would be sent to them about their practices in the areas being studied. The committee heard a summary of the health situation in each country represented at the meeting. Senator Dawson presented the situation in Canada to the other participants. He shared a statistical table with the number of reported COVID-19 cases and the number of deaths across Canada. He also spoke about the steps the Canadian government had taken to support the economy during the pandemic. Lastly, he described the measures in place so that the Parliament of Canada could continue meeting. The Committee also heard from Lauren Jimenez of the Political Affairs and Democratic Governance Directorate at the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). She discussed issues involving governance and democracy during the pandemic in francophone nations and the OIF’s contributions in this area. In closing, members were given a status update on the work of the working group reviewing APF statutes. The draft agenda for its next meeting was adopted.

Meeting of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee (PAC) – June 26, 2020 Joël Godin, Member of Parliament, chairs the Parliamentary Affairs Committee, which considers parliamentary issues of common interest, the overall direction of interparliamentary cooperation, legal issues in the French-speaking world, and rights, freedoms and democratic development. At this meeting held by videoconference, Member of Parliament Chris d’Entremont presented a draft report on the organization of parliaments during the pandemic. The committee heard from senior officials of four APF member parliaments on how their parliaments are operating in these unique circumstances and the associated challenges. A draft report was also presented to members in attendance about open parliament and bringing institutions and populations closer together. Members also heard about other study topics, such as using geolocation in a pandemic context and barriers to legislative initiatives by parliamentarians. In addition, the committee chair reported on cooperation activities with some APF member countries. To close, the committee chair proposed a draft convention with the Réseau francophone d’éthique et de déontologie parlementaires and heard from the president of this network. To conclude, members discussed subjects on the agenda for the Committee’s next meeting.

Meeting of the Cooperation and Development Committee (COOP) – June 25, 2020 The Cooperation and Development Committee considers issues pertaining to human development (health, population and poverty), sustainable development (environment, energy and agriculture) and economic development, from the perspective of cooperation, democracy and solidarity. At the meeting, honourable Éric Forest, Senator and rapporteur of the Canadian Branch, presented his work on the draft report on the four areas of international cooperation for climate change. These four areas are financial support, technology transfer, sharing information and best practices, and technical support for developing countries. Rapporteurs of the Canadian Branch asked all APF branches to answer a survey that would be sent out on their practices in the areas being studied. Participants also discussed resolutions about food loss and food waste, as well as transportation and tourism and their economic impact as a source of development. They were also briefed on the status of WTO international trade negotiations; rural populations and vitality; the status of resolutions adopted at the Luxembourg (2017) and Quebec City (2018) assemblies; and the status of children without identity papers and the consequences for economic development in francophone countries. To conclude, members discussed subjects on the agenda for the Committee’s next meeting.

Meeting of the APF’s Cooperation and Development Committee (COOP) Bureau – June 9, 2020 The APF’s Cooperation and Development Committee Bureau sets the agenda and decides on other administrative matters for the main committee. At the meeting, held by videoconference, the honourable Éric Forest, Senator and rapporteur of the Canadian Branch, was among the members present to discussed about the ongoing and upcoming studies of the main Commission. Senator Forest discussed the status of his draft report on the areas of international cooperation for climate change. The members also considered certain resolutions. Participants also discussed about the status of WTO international trade negotiations; rural populations; the status of resolutions adopted at the Luxembourg (2017) and Quebec City (2018) assemblies; and the status of children without identity papers in the Francophonie. Finally, the members adopted the agenda for the committee’s next meeting.

Meeting of the Bureau of the Network of Women Parliamentarians – June 2, 2020 The Bureau is the organizing committee of the APF’s Network of Women Parliamentarians. It sets the agenda and decides on other administrative matters for the main committee. At the Bureau’s videoconference meeting, Member of Parliament Marie-France Lalonde, rapporteur of the Canadian Branch of the AP,F was among the members present to discuss the ongoing and upcoming studies of the main Commission, namely its report on cyberviolence against women and children and another proposal on the economic empowerment of francophone women. The parliamentarians decided to hold a meeting to discuss a future policy on preventing and addressing harassment; women’s role in the extractive industries, and women’s contribution to the fight against COVID 19. In closing, the agenda for the next meeting of the Political Committee, was adopted.

Meeting of the Political Committee (PC) Bureau – May 29, 2020 The Bureau is the organizing committee of the APF’s Political Committee. It sets the agenda and decides on other administrative matters for the main committee. At the Bureau’s videoconference meeting, the honourable Dennis Dawson, Senator and rapporteur of the Canadian Branch of the APF was among the members present to discuss about the ongoing and upcoming studies of the main Commission. They decided to hold a meeting to discuss about the pandemic situation among member countries of APF and meet with officials of Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. In closing, the agenda for the next meeting of the Political Committee, was adopted.

Meeting of the APF Crisis Committee (COVID-19) - May 28, 2020 The new, temporary, APF Crisis Committee held its second meeting on May 28 with the APF committee chairs and chargés de mission in attendance. Canadian Branch attendees included Francis Drouin, MP, Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-President of the APF; Chris d’Entremont, MP and Vice-Chair of the Canadian Branch; and Joël Godin, MP and Chair of the APF’s Parliamentary Affairs Committee. Attendees were told that a number of measures were adopted by the Permanent Delegation of the APF’s Bureau, including a crisis plan and certain initiatives to fight COVID 19 and address its various impacts. The importance of efficient networking among the APF’s committees and networks was also underlined for the fight against the pandemic. The chairs of the various committees and networks were asked to ensure that their groups are taking concrete action to provide information about COVID-19 and fight the virus. Specifically, the political and parliamentary affairs committees expressed a desire to work together in order to take full stock of how the pandemic is impacting parliamentary proceedings and parliamentarians in La Francophonie in their daily work. The Political Committee suggested that Senator Dawson’s report on the freedom of the press also address the fight against COVID-19 disinformation, particularly on social media. The Parliamentary Network on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria also added a “pandemic” component to its mandate in order to study issues related to the impacts of COVID-19. Lastly, it is noted that the Cooperation and Development Committee will address the issue of African debt relief, as raised by Mr. Drouin at the last Crisis Committee meeting.

The Bureau is the organizing committee of the APF’s Network of Young Parliamentarians. It sets the agenda and decides on other administrative matters for the main committee. At the Bureau’s videoconference meeting, MP Kristina Michaud, rapporteur of the Canadian Branch was among the members present to discuss the current and future studies of the main Commission, namely its report on youth participation in political life. The Bureau meeting concluded after setting the agenda for the upcoming meeting of the Young Parliamentarians Network.

Joël Godin, MP, chairs the Bureau of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee (PAC). The Bureau is mandated to set the agenda and decide on other administrative matters for the main committee. The members attending via videoconference discussed the progress of the work already underway and the new studies to come for the next meeting of the commission. Among other studies, the Canadian Branch proposed a new study on the organization of parliaments during the pandemic. The Bureau also discussed the management of other pandemic-related studies, including the use of using geolocation, obstacles to legislative work, and cooperative activities. Lastly, the members discussed a draft agreement with the Réseau francophone d'éthique et de déontologie parlementaires and adopted a schedule of work for its next meeting.

Meeting of the APF Crisis Committee (COVID-19) – May 17 The APF Crisis Committee, a new temporary body, met on May 17, with Francis Drouin, MP, Chair of the Canadian Branch and First Vice-President of the APF, in attendance. At this meeting, participants agreed to a crisis plan and discussed both the evolution of the pandemic in francophone countries and the measures in place to address the health, economic, social and political consequences. The committee also discussed how the APF’s various governing bodies could contribute to fighting the pandemic. Another topic the committee addressed was African debt relief, and MP Francis Drouin suggested having one of the existing APF’s committees consider this matter. The Crisis committee expressed the view that debt relief, or debt forgiveness, should help reduce inequalities and give nations the means to invest more in their health care systems. The committee also encouraged solidarity between nations. The meeting ended by highlighting the importance of resisting fear, hatred and turning inward during the pandemic.

Room 325 - 180 Wellington

6:30 p.m.

To be eligible to vote at the AGM the deadline for membership for this association is 7 days before the meeting.

The Parliamentary Network on HIV/AIDS was created by the APF, in partnership with UNAIDS, in Yaoundé on July 7, 2000, as a place to debate and discuss ideas and strategies to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. The network also raises awareness of these diseases and promotes actions and activities to combat them. It also provides information to and exerts pressure on parliaments on these issues.

This seminar is part of the APF’s efforts to help the National Assembly of the Republic of Congo build capacity and inform parliamentarians about sound practices for parliamentary oversight and explain how public policy is evaluated in various APF member country parliaments.

This conference gives parliamentarians a greater role in planning action to address the humanitarian crisis, insecurity and ongoing violence in the Sahel region and to promote the region’s social and economic development. It is an opportunity for direct dialogue between parliamentarians, witnesses to local realities and UN and international stakeholders. This event will also be a forum on co-operation between the APF and the G5 Sahel interparliamentary committee.

The Canadian Branch of the APF attended the FNCSF’s 29th annual convention in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The Branch attended this convention to meet and share ideas with francophone stakeholders across the country and to emphasize the importance for francophones to make their voices heard and claim their rights, particularly as regards education in French.

The APF’s 35th Regional Assembly of the Americas brings together all the branches in the Americas region. The Assembly provides branches with the opportunity to meet and share ideas on themes specific to La Francophonie. This year, the theme was the 50th anniversary of Canada’s Official Languages Act.

The Assembly is the APF’s main decision-making body. It holds an annual plenary session. It sets the agenda based on the priorities announced at the Francophonie Summit and the activities of other Francophonie groups. The plenary assembly is attended by delegations from the member branches and associate branches. The Assembly also deliberates on all issues of common interest, adopts motions, votes on resolutions, and issues opinions and recommendations consistent with its objectives. It debates subjects raised by the institutions of the Francophonie and its authorities and serves in an advisory capacity by issuing advice and recommendations. It hears from and questions the Secretary General of the Francophonie and adopts and amends the APF’s by-laws. It elects the members of the Executive, and on a motion of that Executive, it also subsequently elects the president, first vice president, vice chairs and treasurer before the end of the session. On a motion of the Executive, the Assembly also makes decisions regarding the admission of branches, changes to their status or the revocation of their membership, as well as on the granting of permanent observer status. The Assembly also ratifies the APF’s financial statements.

The Cooperation and Development Committee examines issues pertaining to human development (health, population and poverty), sustainable development (environment, energy and agriculture) and economic development from the perspective of cooperation, democracy and solidarity.

The purpose of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee is to study parliamentary matters of common interest, the general direction of interparliamentary cooperation, legal issues in the francophone world, rights and freedoms, and democracy building.

The Political Committee examines political issues and the rule of law in francophone countries, relations with francophone institutions, the Assembly’s overall priorities and any legal issues related to the organization’s by-laws and enforcement provisions.

In 2002, the APF set up a Network of Women Parliamentarians to promote greater participation of women in political, economic, social and cultural life in their own countries and in the Francophonie as a whole. For more information, see report: https://www.parl.ca/DocumentViewer/en/IIA/visit-report/10349411

The Education, Communication and Cultural Affairs Committee examines issues relating to cultural expression in French, education, training, communication, information and communication technologies and audiovisual media. In 2002, the APF set up a Network of Women Parliamentarians to promote greater participation of women in political, economic, social and cultural life in their own countries and in the Francophonie as a whole.

Room 415 - 180 Wellington

6:30 p.m.

To be eligible to vote at the AGM the deadline for membership for this association is 7 days before the meeting.

The Bureau oversees the execution of decisions of the plenary Assembly for which it has delegated authority. In particular, the Executive ensures the implementation of the plenary Assembly’s motions, resolutions, advice and recommendations and makes any decisions it deems necessary in that regard. On the basis of a report of the General Secretariat, it examines issues related to the admission of branches or changes to their status, and it adopts the Assembly’s budget.