Following weeks of anti-government rallies in Canada’s capital and border blockades with the US, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau deployed a new emergency power to deal to the situation.
Trudeau told reporters on Parliament Hill that the federal government invoked the Emergencies Act to supplement provincial and territorial capacity to address the blockades and occupations.
He added,
“I want to be very clear: the scope of these measures will be time-limited, geographically-targeted, as well as reasonable and proportionate to the threats they are meant to address.”
The Emergencies Act, which went into effect in 1988, gives the federal government the authority to implement “exceptional temporary measures to safeguard safety and security during national emergencies.” It is a 30-day measure that takes action instantly when activated.
However, the Act must be approved by Canada’s Parliament within seven days.
What is the Canadian trucker protests about?
The Canadian Trucker protests made way for truckers and supporters with the “Freedom Convoy”.
They wanted all coronavirus restrictions lifted. Participants in the far-right-wing movement placed border blockades and invaded a residential neighbourhood in downtown Ottawa. Some harassed and intimidated residents.
This went on for 2 weeks.
