‘Go Habs Go!’ to return to Montreal buses after OQLF complaint

'Go Habs Go!' will return to digital displays on the front of Montreal city buses. (STM)

The word “Go” will gradually be returning to the digital display of 1,000 Société de transport de Montréal (STM) buses as the Montreal Canadiens push for a playoff spot.

The phrase “Go Habs Go!” was removed from the buses’ exterior displays last April after complaints were made to Quebec’s language watchdog, the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF).

“Over the coming weeks, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) will reintroduce the word ‘GO’ on bus line indicators, in addition to encouraging women’s sports teams in the Montreal community,” the STM said in a news release. “These types of messages contribute to the pride of STM customers and employees who enjoy supporting their local sports teams in all kinds of ways.”

The STM had changed the displays to “Allez Montréal” after the complaint caused a swirl of condemnation, confusion and support for the popular Canadiens’ fan chant.

Quebec’s French-language Minister Jean-François Roberge eventually intervened, saying the expression “Go Habs Go” was part of the province’s culture, and any future complaints about the slogan would be dismissed.

The OQLF then reversed its position, approving the phrase’s usage.

The STM confirms “allez” will still be used “depending on the sport featured.”

“These decisions were made after consulting with the sports teams,” it said.

The Habs currently sit second in the Atlantic division, making the team prime for a playoff berth.

Montreal plays the New York Islanders at the Bell Centre at 7 p.m. on Thursday.