A wave of outrage has swept through Quebec’s National Assembly, culminating in a unanimous vote demanding the resignation of Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau. The core of the controversy? Rousseau’s persistent inability to speak French, a perceived affront to the province’s linguistic identity and a deep disrespect to francophones across Canada.
The breaking point came after a tragic runway collision at LaGuardia Airport claimed the lives of two Air Canada Express pilots, Antoine Forest and Mackenzie Gunther. Rousseau’s initial response – a message of condolence delivered solely in English – ignited a firestorm of criticism, particularly given that one of the deceased, Antoine Forest, was a francophone from Quebec.
A subsequent apology from Rousseau, released in both English and French, was swiftly dismissed as “too little, too late” by members of the National Assembly. The motion, proposed by the Coalition Avenir Québec government, didn’t mince words, firmly denouncing Rousseau’s “lack of respect” towards the French language and grieving Quebec families.
The vote itself was a striking display of unity: 92 in favour, with only one abstention. Members from all major parties – the CAQ, Liberals, Québec solidaire, and even the Parti Québécois – stood together in their condemnation. The PQ’s initial hesitation, based on doubts the motion would yield change, ultimately gave way to a unified front.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Rousseau’s linguistic shortcomings have been a recurring point of contention. In 2021, during a speech to Montreal’s business community, he offered a mere 20 seconds of French before abruptly switching back to English when questioned by a reporter.
His response at the time – suggesting his ability to thrive in Montreal without speaking French was “a testament to the city” – was widely seen as dismissive and insensitive. It fueled accusations that Rousseau’s lack of effort wasn’t simply a personal failing, but a deliberate disregard for Quebec’s cultural values.
The fallout has extended beyond the legislature. The Commissioner of Official Languages has been inundated with complaints, skyrocketing from 795 to over 1,565 in a single day. Federal MPs have summoned Rousseau to Ottawa for questioning, demanding accountability for his perceived failure to uphold Canada’s official bilingualism.
Even those who previously worked alongside Rousseau have voiced their disappointment. Pascale Déry, Air Canada’s former director of media relations, revealed that Rousseau had made similar promises to learn French five years ago, promises that were never fulfilled. She believes his continued resistance suggests a deliberate unwillingness to embrace the language.
The motion doesn’t just call for Rousseau’s resignation; it explicitly demands that his successor possess a “sufficient mastery” of the French language. It’s a clear message: Air Canada, as a national carrier, must demonstrate a genuine commitment to Canada’s linguistic duality.
The situation has become a symbol of a larger debate about linguistic respect and inclusion. For many in Quebec, Rousseau’s actions represent a pattern of disregard that cannot be tolerated. The unanimous vote in the National Assembly is a powerful statement – a demand for accountability and a reaffirmation of the importance of the French language in Canada.
