Quebec launching investigations into 3 Montreal schools over religion
CTV
The Quebec Education Ministry will formally investigate three Montreal schools for possible religious abuses. Preliminary information points to a toxic climate and behavior that could lead to fears for students' safety, among other things.
The Quebec Education Ministry will formally investigate three Montreal schools for possible religious abuses. Preliminary information points to a toxic climate and behavior that could lead to fears for students' safety, among other things.
Education Minister Bernard Drainville confirmed on Wednesday that full investigations will be carried out immediately at Bienville and Saint-Pascal-Baylon elementary schools, as well as at La Voie high school.
Bienville is in Saint-Michel, while the other two are in Côte-des-Neiges.
Drainville requested audits in October in these three schools, in the wake of a report on the Bedford school, also in Montreal, concerning religious practices and a toxic climate.
“The nature of the allegations being of concern” in the three schools in question, full investigation mandates have now been issued.
According to Drainville's office, “multiple issues” have been raised in the three schools, requiring “an in-depth investigative approach.”
These include a toxic climate, interference in decision-making bodies, concerns about the quality of educational services, and behaviour that could lead to fears for the physical or psychological safety of students, according to the school.
