The paramount issue when it comes to religious symbols are security. Any religious symbol which compromises the security of the wearer or those who interact with the wearer should be restricted. But when it comes to the niqab, a further step may be taken. As disagreeable as the niqab is, I am loathe to have the government proscribe how someone should dress. However, the right to dress as one pleases and cover their face needs to be balanced against the rights of those with whom they interact.  No one in public or private life should be compelled to interact with someone who covers their face. With the exception of emergency medical treatment and police protection, anyone refusing to interact with someone who covers their face should be protected from criminal, civil, or human rights prosecution, stemming from that refusal to interact.