Montreal adopts bylaw banning insults against municipal employees
Montreal bylaw bans abuse of police and city workers with fines up to $2,000 Critics warn of vague limits on speech, but supporters say it protects staff
Montreal city council has approved a bylaw that bans insults, harassment, threats, abuse, intimidation and other aggressive behaviour toward police officers and municipal employees.
The measure passed 3525 after a debate that stretched for more than 30 minutes. The rule would allow fines of $300 to $1,000 for a first offence, with repeat violations carrying penalties of up to $2,000. City officials have not said when it will take effect.
Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada said the city needs to protect workers from increasing incidents of inappropriate behaviour, while critics warned the bylaw is vague and could be applied unevenly. Opposition councillors and civil liberties advocates also raised concerns about freedom of expression, public consultation and the potential for the rule to create confusion in the courts.