Quebec’s government is preparing legislation that would prohibit people from praying in public. Minister Jean-François Roberge has said the move is meant to reinforce secularism, following Premier François Legault’s comments that public prayer made him uncomfortable.

The new bill is expected this fall, with some suggesting it could even involve invoking the notwithstanding clause to protect it from constitutional challenges. The advisory committee on secularism recommended leaving the matter to municipalities, but the government wants to move forward itself. Critics argue this is a violation of freedom of religion and expression. Religious groups have said it is discriminatory, while opposition politicians argue there is already enough law on the books to regulate use of public spaces.

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