Next governor general will speak French: Carney

Carney says next governor general will 'absolutely' speak French and English

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, left to right, Prime Minister Mark Carney, King Charles and Queen Camilla pose for a photo after Queen Camilla was officially sworn in as a member of the Privy Council at Rideau Hall in Ottawa during a royal visit on Monday, May 26, 2025.

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

Writer

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada's next governor general will speak both French and English.

In an interview with Radio-Canada, Carney answered "absolutely" when asked by radio host Patrick Masbourian whether he would commit to naming a candidate who speaks both of the country's official languages.

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon speaks English and Inuktitut but has failed to become fluent in French despite taking lessons.

Her lack of proficiency has made her a magnet for criticism, and her 2021 appointment prompted more than 1,300 complaints to Canada's official languages commissioner.

Governors general typically serve a five-year term, meaning Simon's tenure could end sometime in 2026.

Carney declined to speculate on who might take over from Simon, who is the first Indigenous person to serve as the King's top representative in Canada.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 10, 2026.

Next governor general will speak French: Carney

Readers say this Ontario village tucked between 2 lakes is 'better' than a trip to the US

No passport needed.

One of Canada's 'best' spots to live is in Ontario and its a sandy gem with warm-water beaches

It's home to quaint lakeside towns.

The CRA has over $1.8B in uncashed cheques and here's how to find out if you can get money

Government of Canada cheques never expire.

9 federal tax credits that could reduce how much you owe on your tax return this year

If you don't want to owe the government money, these tax credits could help!

Ontario is home to the 'Venice of America' and it's a hidden oasis with sparkling waterways

You don't need to get on a plane to explore this place.

Judge orders pause on Alberta separation process

Judge orders temporary pause on Alberta separation referendum petition process

IKEA has a new type of store and the first location in Canada will be in Ontario

This new small-format store is expected to open in the fall.

Tumbler Ridge victim to head to L.A. for treatment

Tumbler Ridge shooting victim Maya Gebala to head to L.A. for treatment: mom

I tested No Name products against the brand-name versions and the results are shocking

Here's where to splurge, and where you can save.💸

University of Alberta has free courses you can take online that have interesting subjects

You can learn about dinosaurs, black holes, mountains, the arctic, and more!