Lethbridge MP Rachael Thomas following her 2021 re-election. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

MP Thomas calls for Coutts crossing to re-open, though still supporting movement

Feb 2, 2022 | 3:21 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge’s MP says she does not support protesters blocking highways and border crossings.

Rachael Thomas issued a statement on Wednesday in regards to the ongoing blockade at the Coutts border.

“While I am always in favour of peaceful protests and demonstrations, I do not condone blocking critical infrastructure. The blockade set up in Coutts along the Canada-US border is negatively affecting farmers and small business owners in the region and across Alberta who rely on this access point.”

“I am calling for the crossing to be re-opened so the transport of people and goods can resume.”

Thomas has been supportive of the convoy, posting the following message on her Facebook page on Sunday: “When masses of people gather to oppose harmful government mandates, it cannot be ignored. The Freedom Convoy is about more than just a few. It’s about ALL of us.” She also used the hashtag #IStandWithTruckers

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The Coutts convoy is now on day five. After RCMP entered the area on Tuesday, some members of the convoy left the area while others stayed put.

Protesters have agreed to open one lane of traffic while a group of rural MLAs discusses the possibility of urging the provincial government to remove COVID-19 restrictions.

Thomas says she is pleased to see some progress.

“The situation appears to be improving and I look forward to a complete and swift resolution.”

On Tuesday, Premier Jason Kenney said at a press conference claimed that some members of the convoy had assaulted RCMP officers.

LNN has since heard from several people who say no such incidents have occurred and we have attempted to contact RCMP on numerous occasions, but as of this publication, we have not heard back either way.