The Bouchard-Taylor report on reasonable accommodation in Quebec, having already drawn a backlash from separatist leaders, was officially released today.

The “abridged” report is 99 pages, making it about 96 pages more than I feel like reading, so don’t expect any profound insight on this blog. Reading the media recaps (which is perhaps risky, since the report accuses the media of distorting and sensationalizing stories), it seems to dish out fairly reasonable advise, but little in the way of concrete suggestions for government action.

Recapping the recaps:

1. There seems to be a “don’t worry, be happy” vibe in this report – things aren’t as bad as in Europe and the media often overblow incidents. We can all get along if we just open our minds a bit more. Kumbaya spiritual being of my choosing, kumbaya.

2. The province should be proud of its Catholic culture but the government and courts needs to be more secular.

3. The report doesn’t sound anti-French at all to me – it says immigrants need to learn French and the state should actively protect the language…I’m sure Marois and Dumont will find a way to spin this as an anglo assimilation blueprint, but it certainly doesn’t read that way taken as a whole.

4. The government should use incentives to encourage immigrants to settle outside of Montreal. Makes sense.

5. There’s nothing wrong with headscarves.

6. An effort should be made to help new immigrants integrate economically, in part by recognizing foreign credentials.