The French-language twin of TVOntario, TFO, will be spun off as an independent organization on Sunday, breaking away from the Toronto-based educhannel from which it was formed in 1986.

The channel — no longer connected to the Ontario Education Communications Authority that runs TVO — has formed its own board of directors, with former TVO vice-chair Gisèle Chrétien at the helm. It plans to move into new offices elsewhere in Toronto.

‘TFO is now in a position to further increase its impact as a champion of Franco-Ontarian culture,’ said Chrétien in a release. ‘I am delighted to be part of this creation of another strong and vibrant… institution.’

TFO is the only French-language broadcaster operating outside of Quebec. The changes follow a 2005 review of TVO by the provincial government that led to programming changes last year and plans for TFO to go solo with its own board and budget. TFO will operate on $15 million per year from the Ontario government, the same amount it previously drew from TVO, and will likely relocate later this year.