By Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service
(Eagle News) — Protesters have been pushed off the street in front of Canada’s Parliament buildings Saturday as police continue to quell a protest against pandemic restrictions which has been going on for more than three weeks now.
Emotions are running high as police lines advance slowly down other streets in the area, clearing demonstrators from the nation’s capital of Ottawa.
“We told you to leave. We gave you time to leave. We were slow and methodical, yet you were assaultive and aggressive with officers and the horses,” Ottawa police said Saturday on Twitter. “Based on your behaviour, we are responding by including helmets and batons for our safety.”
There have been reports of protesters setting off gas canisters. Some have been seen wearing body armor and carrying smoke grenades and firecrackers.
Police concerned about children in area
Police and child welfare authorities again warned people not to bring children to the area.
“We are seeing young children being brought to the front of the police operation. This is dangerous and it is putting the children at risk. Children may be taken to a place of safety,” police said on Twitter.
Television reporters trying to report live from the protest scene are constantly harassed by hecklers claiming what is being reported is lies.
By early afternoon, nearly 50 people had been arrested.
The crackdown began Friday after the so-called Freedom Convoy occupied downtown Ottawa for 22 days.
People living in the area have had to put up with noise around the clock. They also say they have been harassed and intimidated by protesters.
Help for businesses and workers
Many businesses in the area closed their doors, saying they feared for the safety of their staff.
On Saturday, the federal government said it will provide up to CA$20 million dollars to help those businesses recover.
“Our government is supporting those that have had to shut their doors to protect their workers and customers as a result of these illegal blockades,” said Small Business Minister Mary Ng.
Workers who have not been able to go to their jobs for at least seven consecutive days may be eligible for Employment Insurance.
(Eagle News Service)