Less than a day after backlash in Quebec about his lack of fluency in French, Air Canada’s President and CEO, Michael Rousseau, issued a statement late Thursday - in both official languages.
“As I indicated in my comments to the media, I would like to be able to speak French. I want to make it clear that in no way did I mean to show disrespect for Quebecers and francophones across the country. I apologize to those who were offended by my remarks,” the statement said.
The head of the airline sparked outrage among politicians and media in Quebec Wednesday following questions about why he addressed Montreal’s Chamber of Commerce for nearly half an hour in English with only 30 seconds of French language remarks. Rousseau reportedly told the media he hadn’t needed to learn to speak French during his fourteen years living in Montreal. Then, fanning the flames, Rousseau added that he was also too busy to learn now, given the challenges of leading Air Canada to recovery. It was a gaffe he clearly regrets.
“The fact that this iconic company is headquartered in Montreal is a source of pride for me and our entire executive team. I reiterate Air Canada's commitment to show respect for French and, as a leader, I will set the tone," his statement added.
“I pledge today to improve my French, an official language of Canada and the common language of Quebec, while tackling the serious commercial challenges facing Air Canada as we move from surviving the pandemic to rebuilding to normalcy.”
Give me a break!!