Religious Freedom
MP Nicholson (Niagara Falls) made a statement in the House to acknowledge that the Justice Committee voted to keep Section 176 in the Criminal Code, which makes it illegal to use threats or force to obstruct religious service, or wilfully disrupt religious assemblies. He stated that Canadians and religious officials will be able to practice their right to worship knowing that they will continue to be protected in the Criminal Code. MP Nicholson also stated that the Conservative Party has always supported religious freedom as a fundamental right that greatly affects all Canadians, regardless of whether they attend religious services.

Quebec’s Bill 62
MP Chandra Arya (Nepean, ON) raised concerns regarding Quebec’s Bill 62, which effectively bans face coverings. MP Arya shared his worry that this new provincial bill infringes on the religious freedom of Canadians and will divide Canadians by creating an “us” and “them” dichotomy.

Islamic Heritage Month
MP Arif Virani (Parkdale—High Park, ON) spoke about the month of October being Islamic Heritage Month and how it was an opportunity for everyone, both Muslims and non-Muslims alike to learn from each other and celebrate their differences. He also mentioned that it was a time to recognize the contributions Muslims have made to Canadian society.
MP Salma Zahid (Scarborough Centre, ON) also spoke of Islamic Heritage Month and encouraged Canadians to visit mosques and learn more about their Canadian Muslim neighbours.

Quebec’s Bill 62, on Religious Neutrality
MP Xavier Barsalou-Duval (Pierre-Boucher–Les Patriotes–Vercheres) spoke on the provincial National Assembly of Quebec’s passing of Bill-62 on religious neutrality, which prohibits any citizen with a face covering from receiving public services. MP Barsalou-Duval asked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to commit to not challenging “the National Assembly’s absolute right” to institute this law.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded that the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects all Canadians, and as the Prime Minister, he is tasked with defending the Charter.