Quebec unsure how to enforce ban on wearing religious symbols at work

It remains unclear exactly how the Coalition Avenir Qubec government plans to enforce its secularism bill if it becomes law.

Bill 21, whichwas tabled last week,would barpublic sector workers in positions of authority from wearing religious symbols.

Public Security Minister Genevive Guilbaultsaid Tuesday police could be called in to deal with any potential violation of the proposed law.

But then, she back-tracked, saying it would be up to organization managers to make sure the law is followed.

PremierFranoisLegault, for his part, saidthe law would be enforced, but details of how the government will crack down onhijabs, turbans and other religious wear will be worked out later.

The comments come amid growing opposition to the law, and calls for civil disobedience.

Two school boards and some municipal leaders are vowingthey won't enforce the ban on religious symbols if it becomes law.

"We believe that neutrality of the state is exercised by the actions of our employees and not by their appearance," Beny Masella, mayor of Montreal West and president of the Association of Suburban Municipalities, said in a statement Tuesday.

Justice Minister Sonia LeBel told reporters court injunctions could be used, dismissing the idea of calling the police.

Meanwhile, Federal Public Safety MinisterRalph Goodale said members of the RCMP, the Canada Border Services Agency and federal corrections officers will not be subject to the proposed ban on religious symbols.