AHUNTSIC-CARTIERVILLE – The majority of residents have voted not to allowing a small Muslim cultural centre to also act as a place of worship.
Around 43 per cent of eligible residents turned out; 291 voted against, while 190 voted in favour.
For the last three years, the centre has been operating in a commercial building; it’s zoned that way and praying isn’t allowed.
“You have about 25 minutes a day, for prayers, it’s five times – five by five – it’s about five to 10 per cent of the time they would come and pray,” said Rabiee Lebcir, spokesperson for the centre.
The centre said they applied for a permit to change the zoning and even though borough officials approved, some residents disagreed – forcing a referendum.
“It was clandestine for so long and it was always shady, we felt there were strange things going on there and then when we really found out what was going on, we disagreed with it,” said Mina DeVincenzo, who is a resident in the area.
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Devincenzo said prayers have always been a part of the centre, virtually operating in secret.
In addition, she said it creates parking trouble for residents.
She said she doesn’t feel safe with the centre so close by – a sentiment echoed by many residents, but who were uncomfortable to speak on camera.
“They’re not all the same, you can’t generalize but you know, we’re sort of worried and concerned,” she said.
As for the centre, they insist they have a right to exist.
“We are part of the Canadian society, you can’t isolate us,” said Lebcir.
“Those who are against are just Islamophobic.”
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At the polling station Sunday, residents seemed to be split.
“I think today, religion doesn’t have anymore place in the city and it’s causing more problems than solutions,” said resident, Benjamin Malrtre.
Gaston Ringuelet voted in favour of the centre.
“What’s the problem?” he asked.
“I don’t see one.”
For more information, visit the borough’s website.