Chouinard v. Canada ( Department of National Defence )
T-768-92
Richard J.
29/6/95
4 pp.
Application by Commissioner of Official Languages for Court's leave to appear as party in action brought by applicant pursuant to Act, s. 78(1)(c) -- Commissioner sought leave to appear as party as action brought by applicant raised important matters which might create precedent -- Act gives Commissioner special status on account of function and responsibilities when action brought under Part X of Act -- Purpose of Act to ensure respect for English and French as official languages of Canada and ensure equality of status and equal rights and privileges as to use in federal institutions -- In particular, Act gives Commissioner function of ensuring compliance with spirit of Act and intent of Parliament in administration of affairs of federal institutions-Commissioner wished to present arguments on interpretation of Act regarding language of work, employment opportunities, extent of right of remedy and proof of similar complaints -- Grounds reasonable basis in circumstances for granting Commissioner leave to appear as party in proceeding -- Application allowed -- Official Languages Act, R.S.C., 1985 (4th Supp.), c. 31, s. 78(1)(c).