By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he has no interest in meeting with protesters who have mobbed the streets of Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, in opposition to public health measures.

He says he’s attended rallies in the past when he agreed with the cause.

“But I have also chosen to not go anywhere near protests that have expressed hateful rhetoric, violence toward fellow citizens and a disrespect of not just science, but of the frontline health workers,” Trudeau said Monday.

He went on to say over the past few days Canadians have shocked and disgusted the actions of the protesters involved with the so-called Freedom Convoy.

Protest organizers vow to remain in Ottawa until public health measures are lifted, vaccine mandates are ended and Trudeau resigns.

“I want to be very clear — we are not intimidated by those who hurl insults and abuse at small business workers and steal food from the homeless,” said Trudeau. “We won’t give in to those who fly racist flags — we won’t cave to those who engage in vandalism or dishonor the memory of our veterans.”

The protest has been going on all weekend and has virtually shut down the city’s central core.

Streets are gridlocked. Many businesses have closed. Schools in the downtown area are conducting classes online.

Roaming protesters have been harassing businesses, refusing to wear masks or follow other public health protocols.

On Saturday a group of protesters bullied volunteers at a soup kitchen for the homeless, demanding free meals.

A strong police presence remains throughout the downtown area.

Police estimate the extra security is costing the city CA$800,000 a day.
(Eagle News Service)