Judges in Montreal refused to sit over courthouse constables' pants pressure tactic

The Canadian Press CP National News

MONTREAL - Pants are causing a stir again in Quebec: today, it's at the province's busiest courthouse.Some judges refused to sit in Montreal today because the 80 courthouse constables that provide security were donning jeans and camouflage-style pants.The choice of attire is a pressure tactic related to an ongoing battle with the provincial government over pension reforms.Activities resumed to normal after about 20 minutes when constables assigned to courtrooms changed back to their usual uniforms.But their colleagues in the rest of the building remained in the colourful attire.The controversy comes as Montreal police officers were criticized for wearing camouflage pants to former premier Jacques Parizeau's funeral on Tuesday.That decision prompted condemnation from Montreal's mayor and Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard, who said the provincial government intends to introduce measures this fall to ensure peace officers wear their uniforms.