Wearing the niqab or the burqa are cultural practices only in some Arab countries.  They are mostly used in muslim countries practicing Wahhabism, where women are treated as second class citizens.

Muslim scholars have also stated that the niqab and the burqa are not requirements under Islam.  It is important we do not confuse cultural practices with religious practices.  There are also muslim countries where the burqa and the niqab are banned.

Quite frankly, we have had robberies in Canada committed by men dressed in burqas,  and terrorists in other countries using the burqa to disguise themselves.

Just like how you are not allowed to go into a bank wearing a mask or disguise, banning the niqab and burqa is in the interest of security.  Integration into society is a secondary objective in my view.