Protest in Canadian capital continues; more disruption expected on Monday

By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — Police in the Canadian capital of Ottawa say demonstrators have indicated they plan to continue their protest against public health restrictions for a third day on Monday.

And they are telling people who work downtown to work from home if possible.

Police are aware that many demonstrators have announced their intention to stay in place,” the Ottawa Police Service said Sunday in a release. “This will continue to cause major traffic, noise and safety issues in the downtown core. We urge all residents to avoid travel to the core.”

Canada Unity, the group spearheading the protest, plans several disruptive events throughout the day.

They have called for volunteers to take part in a maskless shopping day where they plan to visit city shopping centers and ignore health restrictions.

They also say loud block parties are planned and they will pressure the media.

The protest has been costly to the city.

Many businesses have closed their doors after protesters refused to respect rfestrictions and bullied workers.

Ottawa police have been adding up the cost of extra policing.

“Along with the safety issues, costs to businesses and social costs, the Ottawa Police continues to tally the financial costs of the policing costs which are estimated at more than $800,000 a day,” police said.

So far there have been no reports of injuries or violence. No arrests have been made.

Monday is also the day the politicians in the House of Commons return to their desks after a six=-week break.

There are no plans to cancel the sitting even though protests and vehicles are block access to Parliament.

Elected members have the option of attending online.
(Eagle News Service)