Scott Moe vows notwithstanding clause after judge halts pronouns policy

globalnews.ca:

interim injunction halting a government policy that requires parental consent when children under 16 want to go by different names and pronouns at school — and the premier is vowing to take action.The decision by Court of King’s Bench Justice Michael Megaw stops the policy for now.“On the whole of the evidence, I am satisfied that those individuals affected by this Policy, youth under the age of 16 who are unable to have their name, pronouns, gender diversity, or gender identity, observed in the school will suffer irreparable harm,” Megaw said.Lawyers for UR Pride sought the injunction, arguing that it could cause teachers to out or misgender children and that it violates the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The province’s lawyers say the policy has been misinterpreted.

They say parents should be involved when their children decide to change their names or pronouns.

In a statement following the court’s ruling, Premier Scott Moe said the notwithstanding clause will be invoked to push the policy forward.“Our government will take immediate action to ensure the rights of Saskatchewan parents are protected and that this policy is implemented by recalling the Legislative Assembly and using the notwithstanding clause of the Canadian constitution to pass legislation to protect parental rights,” Moe said.My response to today’s court ruling.

pic.twitter.com/ij5GP5r4HH— Scott Moe (@PremierScottMoe) September 28, 2023He said the government is extremely dismayed by the court’s decision, claiming it blocks the Parental Inclusion and Consent policy.“It is in the best interest of children to ensure parents are included in their children’s education, in their classrooms and in all important decisions involving their children.”Moe noted that