Montreal city council adopts bylaw banning insults against police, municipal employees
Montreal city council has passed a controversial bylaw that imposes fines on residents who insult municipal employees or police officers. Critics argue the rule lacks clear definitions and may infringe upon constitutional freedom of expression.
Why it matters
The bylaw raises significant questions about the balance between protecting public servants and maintaining civil liberties.
The debate over the rule lasted over half an hour, with the Official Opposition saying the proposed bylaw was "half-baked." It was adopted with 35 voting in favour and 25 opposed.
"We are being asked to vote now and consult later," said Marie Plourde, leader of the Official Opposition.
Under the bylaw, residents who insult city staff would face fines between $300 and $1,000 for a first offence. Subsequent offences could result in fines up to $2,000.
City officials have not said when they will implement the bylaw.
Yves Francœur, head of the police brotherhood, has said his union's members have been pushing for such a bylaw for years. But lawyers and civil rights groups worry the bylaw could infringe on the constitutional right to freedom of expression.
Other municipalities in the province, including Quebec City, Laval, Longueuil and Sherbrooke, already have similar bylaws.
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