MONTREAL — Quebec Education Minister Bernard Drainville says his department will investigate complaints involving 17 schools across the province where it is alleged that state secularism is not being respected.

“Complaints and reports have been brought to the attention of the (Education Department) regarding issues related to non-compliance with secular obligations,” the Education Department said in a statement. “Many citizens responded to the call to inform the government of any situation where behaviour contrary to the values of Quebec society is observed.”