Re: it's all in the accent, Jan. 31.
Ottawa's review of street names is not a new process With amalgamation, it was necessary to avoid duplication of street names and ensure that emergency services are not sent to the wrong location. As part of that process, the question of proper spelling of street names arose. I believe that history is priceless. Our history is at the very root of our society. It is something of which we can and should be proud. People visiting the nation's capital will better appreciate that history when they see visible references in everyday signs and place names.

Many streets were named to commemorate outstanding citizens or early pioneers. If the city makes an effort to honour members of our society, why would we not also show respect by ensuring that their names are correctly spelled?

Every language has its rules and idiosyncrasies. In French, accents are an integral part of that language. In English,
names frequently incorporate an apostrophe such as O'Connor or O'Donnell. Correctly spelling a name with historical significance is the very least that our city should do.

In cities where history is more highly prized, street names commemorating a favoured son or daughter include, in a smaller script, some reference to the contribution being celebrated such as writer, scientist, doctor or bishop.

The cost estimate for rectifying streets mentioned in the report that generated this controversy was $1,600. To standardize future street signs while keeping costs down, the city has been slowly replacing street signs, as they get older, break and fade. This is a 10- to 15-year project.

The new signs will be there a long time. It makes sense to ensure the spelling is correct, including accents where appropriate. Who wants their tax dollars spent on misspelled signs? Why create or perpetuate mistakes?

The city continually replaces street -signs. The potential for waste occurs when mistakes creep into the process. We are losers either through having to make corrections in the future or through loss of a piece of our heritage. Now that would be a waste and a shame.


Jacques Legendre, Ottawa
Councillor, Rideau-Rockcliffe