Tougher language exam proposed for citizenship

[CHIMO]

The federal government is cracking down on the language competency of newcomers who apply for Canadian citizenship.

In a government notice released Friday, Ottawa says multiple choice tests are no longer enough to demonstrate immigrants can speak one of the two official languages.

It wants would-be citizens tested on their oral and listening skills.

“The written test is an inadequate proxy for assessing language as it does not adequately assess listening and speaking skills . . . for effective communication with fellow Canadians and for effective integration,” wrote Nicole Girard, a Citizenship and Immigration Canada acting director general.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1070388--tougher-language-exam-proposed-for-citizenship?bn=1