Carney Welcomes Kelly A. Burke as Canada’s New Commissioner of Official Languages
Kelly Burke Commissioner of Official Languages Appointment Approved by Parliament
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed the appointment of Kelly A. Burke as Canada’s new Commissioner of Official Languages, following approval by the House of Commons and the Senate. Her seven-year term officially begins March 30, 2026.
The Commissioner of Official Languages is an Agent of Parliament appointed under the Official Languages Act and is responsible for promoting the equality of English and French across Canadian society and within federal institutions.
Extensive Public Service and Legal Experience
Burke brings more than 20 years of experience spanning public service, governance, and higher education. A senior administrator and legal expert, she has held several leadership roles within the Ontario Public Service.
Her previous positions include Deputy Ombudsman and Commissioner of French Language Services, as well as Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief Administrative Officer in Ontario’s Ministry of Francophone Affairs.
In her new federal role, Burke will oversee compliance with the Official Languages Act, ensure federal institutions uphold language rights, and support the vitality and development of official language minority communities across Canada.
Upholding Linguistic Duality
In a statement released February 27, 2026, Prime Minister Carney emphasized the importance of bilingualism to Canada’s national identity.
“Bilingualism is at the heart of the Canadian identity – we are a country that respects and celebrates its official languages,” the Prime Minister said. “With Kelly Burke’s experience and expertise, she is uniquely qualified to protect this identity and build a stronger, more inclusive Canada.”
The Prime Minister also thanked outgoing Commissioner Raymond Théberge, who served from 2018 to 2026, for his leadership in advancing linguistic duality and safeguarding language rights.
Role of the Commissioner
The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages was established in 1970 under the Official Languages Act. The Commissioner acts independently from government and reports directly to Parliament.
The appointment process requires consultation with recognized party leaders in both the Senate and House of Commons and approval by resolution in both chambers before formal appointment by the Governor in Council.
As Canada continues to strengthen protections for official language minority communities and modernize the implementation of the Act, the Commissioner’s office remains central to ensuring equality of English and French across federal institutions and services.
For more information, Canadians can visit the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages of Canada.
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