MUHC doctors call for tougher anti-charter stance

The head of the McGill University Health Centre says the organization is against the secular charter, although they have yet to release an official position on the bill.

Last night, at the MUHCs annual general meeting, severaldoctors criticized the health care centres management for failing to take a strong stance against Bill 60, the Parti Qubcoiss proposed secular charter.

MUHC neurologist Dr. Michael Rasminsky saidits time the MUHC sends a message.

We should be leading the parade rather than following it, Rasminsky said.

Last month, the Jewish General Hospital came out strongly against the bill, which would prohibitQuebec doctors and nursesfrom wearing overt religious symbols.

• Jewish General Hospital says charter is 'offensive'

Today management at the MUHC responded to Rasminskys pleas, and said they expect to release their official position on the charter in the next few weeks.

We are clearly saying we opposethe charter of values, said MUHC CEO Norman Rinfret.

Rinfret saidmanagement is in the middle of internal consultations on the charter, and he encouraged staff to share their views.

Rinfret said he expects those consultations to wrap up in about a week.

The MUHCthen plans to have a formal position ready to give the government later this month.