Ottawa mayor declares state of emergency as roadblocks persist

Ottawa mayor declares state of emergency as roadblocks persist

Ottawa, which has been facing the noisy presence of hundreds of heavy goods vehicles from all over Canada for ten days, has just declared a state of emergency. Its mayor thus hopes to obtain more support from the authorities of the province and Canada to settle the question of the occupation of part of the city centre. Coming initially to Parliament to ask for the end of the obligation of the vaccination passport when they return to Canadian soil after having delivered their goods, the truck drivers and their very many sympathizers are demanding the end of health measures.

With our correspondent in Quebec, Pascale Guericolas

For the mayor of Ottawa, the case is heard. The presence of trucks and vans for almost a kilometer near the Canadian Parliament represents a serious danger, and a threat to the safety of nearby residents. By declaring a state of emergency, he hopes to have more material and government support to end this occupation of the city center.

Fuel cans prohibited

Already, the police forces have warned the truck drivers. From today, they can no longer walk on the street with diesel cans to fill the tanks of their trucks, or gas cylinders which they use to operate their barbecues. Temporary wooden constructions have appeared for ten days in several sectors of the city, where the demonstrators have food and warm clothes.

Lawsuit

Tired of the inaction of the authorities so far, a resident of the city center has launched a legal action for nearly six million euros. She gives the truckers a few hours to get home, before attacking them in court.

Read also : Canada: against health measures, truckers block Ottawa, police powerless

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