The Quebec government tabled a wide-ranging public security bill Wednesday that would forbid criminal groups from displaying their colours, create a sex offender registry and forbid protests near the homes of elected officials.

Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière said Bill 13 aims to foster a sense of security among the public. Premier François Legault gave the minister the mandate to do this during the government’s inaugural address to open the legislature earlier this fall.

The new bill prohibits wearing or displaying any patches or symbols promoting a list of criminal entities established by the Public Security Department.

“We know very well what the purpose (of the insignia) is: intimidation,” Lafrenière told a news conference. “Today, the message we are sending is that it’s ove

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