While everyone is calling for calm in the wake of the tabling of Bill 21 on the laicity of the State, comments made by the Vice-Premier and Minister of Public Security, Ms. Geneviève Guilbault’s regarding appeals to police in the potential application of Bill 21 were cause for Ms. Hélène David, the MNA representing Marguerite-Bourgeoys and Official Opposition Critic for Secularism, to make the following statement.
The Vice-Premier and Minister of Public Security’s comments are a testament to the improvisation and confusion that reign within the ranks of the Coalition Avenir Québec on this issue, as well as to the enforcement difficulties that the bill presents. Indeed, many legitimate questions are still left unanswered. We want a calm and serene debate. It seems to me that the Vice-Premier is setting the wrong tone for such a delicate matter. The Minister’s comments are liable to raise suspicions and incite the population to denounce wrongdoing. Does she really want work colleagues to start calling the police to report religious symbols that aren’t visible? Sooner or later the Premier is going to have to answer Quebecers’ questions.
—Hélène David, MNA representing Marguerite-Bourgeoys and Official Opposition Critic for Secularism
