Procedure and House Affairs committee  I would like to discuss three points. Firstly, the reasons for opposing the niqab are more emotional than regulatory, given that the niqab is designed in such a way that any woman wearing one can be identified. Secondly, objecting to Elections Canada's position is no way to stand up to Muslim extremism.

Procedure and House Affairs committee  As I see it, if the law is amended, then Muslims will become involved. The act would only be amended in response to pressure from hooligans—and this type of sentiment has surfaced in Quebec. These hooligans have an abiding hatred for Muslim extremism, and I can understand why they may feel this way.

Procedure and House Affairs committee  My name is Salah Basalamah and I am here on behalf of Présence musulmane. Generally speaking, we are not in favour of people wearing the niqab this custom is not rooted in any religious beliefs, but rather reflects a cultural tradition. However, like any democratic person who is respectful of others, we defend a woman's right to wear the niqab.