(Canadian Press)

By LNN Staff

Kenney on Coutts convoy: “This blockade must end”

Jan 30, 2022 | 8:12 PM

COUTTS, AB – Alberta’s Premier is urging protesters at the Coutts border to go home.

On Saturday, hundreds of commercial vehicles lined up near the Canada-U.S. border, demanding that public health measures including a cross-border vaccine mandate for commercial truck drivers, to end.

READ MORE: Alberta truckers hit provincial roads to support compatriots in Ottawa

Some remained on scene Sunday and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) told travellers to expect lengthy delays.

READ MORE: CBSA warns of “extensive delays” as Coutts convoy continues

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On Sunday afternoon, Premier Jason Kenney came out against the Southern Alberta convoy, stating that, by blocking access to and from the border, the movement is in violation of the Alberta Traffic Safety Act.

The UCP leader states that police can utilize authorities under the Critical Infrastructure Defense Act to issue penalties to those blocking highways and other pieces of critical infrastructure.

“It is causing significant inconvenience for lawful motorists and could dangerously impede movement of emergency service vehicles. This blockade must end.”

The Premier reiterates his support of peoples’ right to protest, but urges them to do so in ways that are safe and respectful.

“If participants in this convoy cross the line and break the law, I expect police to take appropriate action.”

Alberta RCMP issued a statement, saying they are attempting to engage with the members of the convoy.

“The Alberta RCMP will use only the level of intervention necessary to ensure the safety of all citizens and to maintain peace, order, and security. Our goal is to facilitate lawful and peaceful protest. When an event becomes unlawful we utilize a measured approach, which ultimately includes enforcement. This event is unlawful and we are asking those who are involved to clear the area.”

In a separate set of Tweets Sunday afternoon, Kenney said he is “disgusted” by the images of protesters in Ottawa who were “parking on and desecrating the National War Memorial and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa and some displaying symbols of hatred.”

Kenney called for the organizers of the trucker convoys to disassociate themselves from “anyone involved in the convoy who hold or express racist, anti-Semitic, or bigoted views.”