Great expense to Canada

Re: There is no ‘sacred duty’ to Canada’s veterans, Aug. 6.

In his opinion piece, Professor Paul Robinson states “Putting any social group on a pedestal is risky. It may lead to a culture of entitlement, and even within our democratic system it may become difficult to challenge the group in question.” I could not agree more. Just look at the effects of official bilingualism sold to Canadians on the basis of providing service to all Canadians in the language of their choice where numbers warrant. After 40 years and over $800 billion spent, what do we have?

Legislation that says “where numbers warrant” totally ignored and costly programs in locations with less than one or two per cent needing French services. A civil service where jobs and promotions are based on language rather than merit and where more than 85 per cent of Canadians cannot apply. An unnecessary national debt over $600 billion if not for the billions spent on bilingualism, and no money for adequate health care, infrastructure, education or reducing taxes.

In Ontario, we now have hospitals that do not employ the most technically proficient candidates in favour of language, French-only medical clinics, towns enacting bylaws forcing business signs in both languages against their Charter rights.

We have more disunity than unity because this legislation has placed one group on a pedestal and has led to a culture of entitlement on their part. It is time to have a second look at official bilingualism as it is currently practised. It certainly should not be the “sacred” cow into which it has morphed at great expense to all Canadians.

BOB HURTER, Orléans