The Franco-Ontarian Festival ended its sponsorship with Alto yesterday, a few hours before its opening in Ottawa, after a controversy. The organization says the decision, taken by mutual agreement, is intended to prevent the debate from harming the festivities. Its executive director, José Bertrand, maintains that the festival wants to focus on Franco-Ontarian culture, not politics. Alto’s withdrawal will however lead to a significant loss of income for the event, which is already financially weakened.