Quebec wants to ban government workers from wearing religious headwear like turbans, kippas

MONTREAL – Quebec is proposing a law that would forbid government workers from wearing religious headwear such as hijabs, turbans, and kippas

The separatist Parti Quebecois government said Tuesday the so-called "values charter" will be introduced for debate later this year.

Bernard Drainville, the minister responsible for the proposal, says the goal is to ensure the complete neutrality of the state on religion.

The ban would apply to every public worker, including teachers and police.

Smaller religious symbols, such as a Christian cross on a necklace or the Star of David on a ring, will be allowed.

Leaked details of the plan have revived a long-standing debate in Quebec over religious accommodation and have been widely criticized in the rest of Canada.