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But by delaying the discussion, the board will be applying the law by default. In other words, when the first school bell rings next week, Bill 21 will be implemented in all EMSB institutions.

Ortona said the decision was not unanimous, and some councillors appeared visibly frustrated at the meeting.

“This is not an issue that we should be delaying, and the delay we’re seeing this evening is very disappointing for myself, and I think many stakeholders will agree with me,” said EMSB chair Angela Mancini.

Still, Ortona asserts that tabling the decision was the right move.

“I think it’s more important to get it done right than to get it done right away,” he said.

On Wednesday, the CSDM also held a meeting to determine how the school board will be applying Bill 21. However, Ortona said the decisions of the CSDM will have no bearing on the EMSB.

“I think the EMSB is its own body and makes its own decisions, and I think the CSDM is its own body and makes its own decisions,” he said.

Last week, a deputy minister in the Education Department sent a letter to the directors general of all Quebec school boards reminding them of their obligation to adhere to the secularism law and warning that they could be disciplined if they fail to do so.

With the government planning to abolish school boards and do away with school commissioners, the directors general will likely report directly to the Education Department. Many of them are unwilling to anger Quebec, fearing they could be sanctioned or moved aside, sources have told the Montreal Gazette.