Montreal transit agency bans workplace prayers under new Quebec secularism law

Montreal’s public transit agency is informing employees that prayer is no longer permitted on its workplace premises as parts of Quebec’s new secularism law take effect Sept. 1.

The Quebec government passed the legislation in April, banning prayer rooms in public institutions, including colleges, universities and transit agencies. The law also prohibits public prayer without explicit authorization from municipalities.

According to The Canadian Press, The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has four rooms that employees can use for quiet activities such as meditation and yoga. These spaces were previously also available for prayer.

The STM says signs have been placed outside the rooms to remind employees of the new restrictions. Supervisors who observe religious practices are instructed to address the issue directly with the employee.

A spokesperson for the National Council of Canadian Muslims says the legislation infringes on religious freedoms in Quebec and risks creating further division in the province.