claims and to learn a bit more about the native population, we have been paying particular attention to how these issues develop by conducting research, establishing contacts as well as by participating in workshops organized by the Assembly of First Nations. We should not forget that the Fédération fully endorsed the position of our national organization in recognizing the three major national communities in Canada: french speaking, english speaking and native. COMMUNICATIONS Cuts at Radio-Canada At the same time as the francophone community considered itself inadequately served by Société Radio- Canada, it recently had to witness the La Fédération des Franco-Colombiens Public demonstration against cuts at Radio-Canada. Annual Report 1990-1991 aS SS A SS SS RN ASS SE a slashing of regional television productions. On December 5, 1990, the President of Société Radio-Canada, Mr, Gérard Veilleux, announced cuts of $108 million, which here meant the loss of five regional television programs. The Fédération loudly denounced this reduction in service and has worked very actively on this issue. We have written to Prime Minister Mulroney and to Communications Minister, Mr. Marcel Masse, in an effort to make them understand that Radio-Canada is an indispensible development tool for uniting, informing and promoting the francophone community in British Columbia. We have worked closely with the “100 Days of Action Coalition” as well as with the “Coalition pour la Défense des services francais de Radio-Canada”. This cooperation has led to the production of a video-letter as well as toa massive mailing of symbolic letters to various targeted ministers with the intention of increasing their awareness of our concerns. Furthermore, we participated in a public demonstration during which our President, Marie Bourgeois, spoke to underline the seriousness of the situation. With further cuts planned for the fiscal years to come, the future of public radio and television remains uncertain. Within this context, the arrival of TVS to Vancouver’s television screens after intense lobbying by the F.F.C. was small consolation, particularly as Rogers Cable included TV5 among its pay channels rather than as part of its basic service. Communications Strategy In spite of a packed agenda, the Fédération took time this year to discuss a communications strategy that would target and multiply its dealings with the media and the public. Action plans have therefore been developed to strengthen our internal and external communications, as well as those with our member associations. We believe that by reviewing this communications plan every six months we will be able to increase our profile at the provincial level. The Fédération also had a high profile through its participation in the major events put on by the francophone community. It was very actively involved in the Féte colombienne des enfants at Fort Langley, the Festival du Bois in Maillardville and the Festival francophone in Vancouver. We are pleased to support any initiative that promotes the growth of the francophone community in British Columbia. We often say that the F.F.C. fosters the bringing together of organizations and individuals. We are therefore proud to have contributed to the success of the Soleil de Colombie’s subscription campaign.