OTTAWA – Delays in approval and funding for organizations funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage were at the heart of James Moore's testimony before the House Standing Committee on Official Languages. NDP MP Yvon Godin (Acadie-Bathurst) asked the minister whether he would repay interest charges that receiving organizations accumulate when they do not receive funding in time.

“Some associations have paid up to $1,000 in interest on credit lines. It’s taxpayers’ money thrown out the window and given to banks," said Mr. Godin. "All this because of the federal government’s negligence!”

A study conducted by the Fédération des Communautés Francophones et Acadiennes (FCFA) du Canada of its member organizations has shown that delays in approval and funding for organizations the Department of Canadian Heritage is responsible for have serious consequences. The study concludes that over 72 per cent of respondent organizations had to rely on a line of credit or a loan in 2009 to be able to continue their work while they waited for the funds from Canadian Heritage.

"Mr. Moore has been clear today: the government will not reimburse the interests accrued. It’s awful to see that the stolen money from communities and organizations will not be reimbursed," said Godin. "We will continue our inquiries with the minister in the hopes that he will adopt a more sensible position."