The fleet of truckers making its way to Ottawa as part of the “freedom convoy” is about to grow significantly.
Atlantic Canadian truck drivers are expected to join the demonstration throughout today as part of the movement opposing the vaccine mandates imposed on drivers entering Canada.
Departing Enfield, N.S. at 7 a.m., stops will be made at four locations in New Brunswick before stopping for the night in Quebec.
“We’re welcoming all persons to join the convoy in whole from your destination to Ottawa or in part to escort the convoy as far as you can into the province of your choice,” says Leanne Carter, Maritime coordinator for the freedom convoy.
Social media posts from across Canada show thousands of truckers en route to the nation’s capital. Canada Unity, the organizers of the event, have become popular in recent weeks for the freedom convoy, but Carter says their purpose exceeds the impact of one demonstration.
“People are throwing themselves, their money, their passion, they’re throwing everything behind this because Canada Unity isn’t just about a convoy it’s about Canadians coming back together in a time where we have been divided and segregated and ripped apart.”
Members of the convoy are expected to meet in Ottawa on Saturday
Meantime, RCMP will be keeping a close eye as a Freedom convoy rolls through our region today…
Corporal Hans Ouellette says public safety is their prime focus, “The RCMP is aware of the protest convoy action that will be happening in the province and we are monitoring it closely. Our role is to always keep order and keep the peace and our response is always assessed and adjusted on each individuals situation. So I can’t speculate on what the situation might be on the highway.”
He adds with a large number of trucks expected, there are steps they would follow if a a blockade occurred, “That is considered a criminal offence under section 423 of the criminal code. During those situations, our police officers and members will balance the protesters rights with enforcing the law.”
He says the RCMP will be updating their social media if there is anything of significance the public needs to be aware of, including traffic issues.
We are aware of protest action planned for today in New Brunswick. #RCMPNB will be present to promote public safety. Motorists should be prepared for possible delays. Public safety is our top priority.
— RCMP New Brunswick (@RCMPNB) January 27, 2022
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With files from Robert Lothian and Tara Clow.
