Feds looking at options on face-covering bill
In the wake of a court challenge against a controversial Quebec law banning people from wearing face coverings while giving or receiving public services, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government is actively studying ways in which it might also weigh in.
Trudeau’s remarks on Quebec’s Bill 62 are the strongest indication he’s given yet about the federal government’s position on the law, which has been widely panned across the country for perceived discrimination against Muslim women.
Two groups filed a lawsuit in the province this week claiming the bill is unconstitutional and discriminates against an already marginalized population.
The Quebec government has defended the law on the grounds that it is in line with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and ensures security for all.
Speaking in Vietnam, Trudeau offered his first remarks on the bill since the court challenge was launched.
He says the government is mulling ways in which it could potentially take action against the legislation.
“We’re looking at Bill 62 carefully, we’re listening to the questions being asked about it and we’re in the process of studying, internally, the different processes we could initiate or with whom we could join,” Trudeau said. “But we will continue to reflect and to work on it.”
He also reiterated his commitment to upholding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as well as concerns about the appropriateness of legislating women’s apparel.
“I think I’ve been very clear that I don’t think a government should be legislating what a woman should or shouldn’t be wearing. I don’t think that’s something that is right for Canada,” he said. “I will always defend the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and as for next steps, we’re watching the situation as it unfolds and reflecting on what those steps might or could be.”
Trudeau had initially stayed mum on the bill when it was first passed last month, saying efforts to fight it should come from citizens rather than higher orders of government.