Another federal leader cautions Quebec on secular charter

OTTAWA – Another federal politician is venturing into the turbulent debate over religious freedom and Quebec’s proposed secular charter.

NDP Leader Tom Mulcair had earlier avoided commenting on the so-called charter of Quebec values, calling it a trial balloon.

A leaked media report — which the Parti Quebecois government has not denied — said the charter would ban public employees from wearing religious head coverings and other religious symbols at work.

While still cautious, Mulcair says he opposes anything that might scapegoat certain people — particularly Muslim women.

He also says any legislation that goes against the recommendations of a 2008 provincial commission on accommodating cultural communities is a non-starter.

Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau has sharply criticized the proposed charter, calling it unworthy of Quebec, while the Conservatives say it’s a provincial matter.