Dorothy Myo named new commissioner of Indigenous languages

A cabinet decision announcing her appointment says Myo was selected for the role after consultations with Indigenous governments and organizations.

The selection process for a new, permanent commissioner was delayed and St-Aubin’s 90-day term was extended last month.

The term of Ron Ignace, the previous commissioner, ended in July, along with the terms of the office’s directors.

The Canadian Press reported earlier this year an audit is being conducted on the office, which is tasked with helping to preserve at-risk Indigenous languages.

Half a dozen sources, including former employees, told The Canadian Press that over the five years of its existence, the commissioner’s office has failed to move the needle on strengthening Indigenous languages and supporting research.

Instead, they said, the office focused on extensive travel and hosting one big conference in Ottawa that cost $10 million. They also alleged a toxic work environment, bullying and uncompleted projects, and staff quitting in frustration.

The Canadian Press agreed not to name the sources because they feared reprisals.

In a media statement at the time, Ignace said the office has faced challenges but “we succeeded in laying the foundation for an office capable of carrying forward this significant work.”

Canadian Heritage Minister Marc Miller described allegations against the office as serious.

“But part of holding people to account is giving people the benefit of the doubt, and that includes making sure the due process is respected,” he said in June.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 11, 2026.

Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

Dorothy Myo named new commissioner of Indigenous languages

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