Public bus driver sent home after refusing to doff religious cap

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TORONTO --_ A newly hired bus driver for York Region's public transit service has been sent home from work after he refused a supervisor's request to take off his kufi - a rounded cap worn by Muslims - while on the job.

McGregory Jackman had only been working two weeks when, on March 16, he was issued a warning by an inspector with his contractor, Veolia Transportation Inc., for wearing the kufi, citing a violation of the employment dress code. He was sent home the next day.

Since then, the 43-year-old father of two said he has been on unpaid leave after trying to seek an exemption from the contractor and York Region. Jackman said both York Region and Veolia told him it is the other party's decision.

"I just want to go back to work and take care of my family," said Jackman, a Trinidadian who converted to Islam in 1995 and has previously worked as a bus driver. "I just want to be a Muslim and do my job."

York Region Transit general manager Don Gordon said Monday there is no provision for headgear in standard uniforms, but the contract with Veolia does permit drivers to wear them for cultural, health and religious needs on a case-by-case basis. But the employee must ask the region in writing for an exemption, he said.

When told that Jackman's request was made in writing last Thursday, Gordon said it was received at the close of the business day leading into the Easter weekend.

"We will absolutely comply with any Ontario Human Rights Code requirement," Gordon said, adding the decision is ultimately the region's. "We're going to deal with it first thing Tuesday morning."

Veolia management could not be reached for comment Monday.