The PQ says it will water-down the action it plans to take on secularism, but that some new policy or project on the subject will be unveiled this spring.

"We are going to do something on secularism in the new year. What exactly will we be doing remains to be seen," says minister Bernard Drainville.

The PQ had promised a charter on secularism during its election campaign. It said the legislation would ban public servants from wearing "ostentatious" religious headcoverings such as turbans or veils, but would allow an exception for small pieces of jewelry, like a cross pendant.

The PQ also said it would keep the crucifix in the National Assembly.

Drainville now says this spring's project will not be a "charter," but will take a form that will be more acceptable to the opposition parties.