QUEBEC - Premier Jean Charest indicated Tuesday the provincial government may amend the Quebec Charter of Rights to put the equality of men and women ahead of religious freedom.
Charest told a news conference the government will likely act before the completion of hearings into reasonable accommodation for immigrants.
The government has received recommendations for such an amendment already from the provincial status of women's council.
"It's a recommendation that we find very interesting,'' Charest said.
The amendment would bring Quebec into line with the federal Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Charest also attacked economic theories proposed by Action democratique du Quebec Leader Mario Dumont, saying they just don't hold water.
Charest didn't waste any time knocking Dumont on the issue considering the next session of the legislature -- to begin Oct. 16 -- will be focused on the economy.
The premier said Dumont is wrong about the role of the Caisse de depot et placement pension fund manager, saying the ADQ leader is harking back to a time that was more protectionist and involved more government intervention.
Charest described as "very dangerous'' Dumont's stand on foreign intervention and takeovers of Quebec companies.
"He is playing with the finances of all Quebecers,'' he said. "He's saying he's ready to play Monopoly with the money Quebec taxpayers have worked hard to earn.''
Charest said there is no question of turning back the economic clock.
The premier said he wants to press ahead with a number of economic projects such as the natural gas installation near Quebec City and help for the forestry sector.
"One of the greatest achievements of our government is its economic performance,'' Charest said.
He also said he would push the federal government to limit spending in provincial jurisdictions.
