Montreal police officers to ditch camo pants for Jean Bliveau funeral

Montreal police officers will put their camouflage pants of protest aside for the funeral of beloved Habs hockey legend Jean Bliveau, who died late Tuesday at the age of 83.

The Montreal Police Brotherhood announced the temporary reprieve from camo pants on Friday as a sign of respect.

Officers will wear their official uniforms on Sunday and Monday while Bliveau's body lies in wake at theBell Centre, as well as at his funeral on Wednesday.

"This decision is based on the tribute we owe to this man, his family and his admirers in the context of a national funeral," the release said.

The union also extended its condolences to Bliveau's family.

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Montreal police officers began wearing camo pants in the summer to protest against major pension reforms for municipal employees.

Bliveau's funeral will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 10 atMary, Queen of the World Cathedral near the Bell Centre.

His body will rest at the Bell Centrethis Sunday and Monday.The public is invited to pay tribute to him there between 10 a.m. and 6p.m.