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QUEBEC — Despite the musing of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of a possible legal challenge, Quebec’s justice minister says she is convinced Bill 62 will stand up in the courts.

But Stéphanie Vallée has refused to rule out the use of the constitution’s notwithstanding clause, which would allow the government to override fundamental rights to protect the law adopted last week.

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At the same time, Premier Philippe Couillard has warned reluctant cities and educational institutions that he expects Bill 62 to be respected.

“That Mr. Trudeau does not share our opinion is his right,” Vallée said. “He has the right to have an opinion on the law. I won’t start having conversations (with him) through the media.

“I would just say I am completely confident in the constitutionality of Bill 62, which was adopted and given royal assent last week. I am persuaded it will pass the test of the courts.

“Quebec has the right to legislate on issues which belong to it, issues affecting diversity and people living together in Quebec. I think it’s important to legislate on these questions.”