By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service
(Eagle News) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is not prepared to use the military to end a protest in the country’s capital city that is now in its sixth day.
“As of now there have been no requests and that is not in the cards right now,” Trudeau said Thursday.
The nearly week-old protest was launched by people opposed to vaccine mandates for cross-border truckers.
They are now demanding an end to all public health measures designed to limit the spread of COVID-19.
At a news conference Thursday, protest organizer Tamara Lich says they will not leave Ottawa until their demands are met.
“Let me assure the people of Ottawa that we have no intent to stay one day longer than necessary,” Lich said. “Our departure will be based on the prime minister doing what is right, ending all mandates and restrictions on our freedoms.”
She says the protest will continue until the government comes up with a plan to eliminate those measures.
But Trudeau says he will not negotiate with the group, adding the issue was debated in last fall’s election campaign.
“So having a group of people who disagree with the outcome of an election, who want to go a different way and bring in an alternative government, is a non-starter in a responsible democracy,” he said.
City under siege
Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly last night said all options are on the table to end the dispute, including asking the federal government for military help.
But the prime minister isn’t so anxious to deploy the armed forces.
“One has to be very, very cautious before deploying military in situations engaging Canadians,” said Trudeau. “It is not something anyone should enter in lightly.”
Ottawa’s downtown core has been virtually shut down since last weekend. A number of businesses closed their doors because protesters harassed their staff.
For those living in the downtown area, life has become unbearable. Fireworks, loud music and horns keep people awake all night. There are reports of vandalism.
The protest has turned into an occupation and prompted Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson to say residents are being held hostage in their own homes.
(Eagle News Service)