Increased police presence in downtown Ottawa on 'Freedom Convoy' anniversary
CTV
The Parliamentary Protective Service says it expects as many as 500 people to gather on Parliament Hill for an event this weekend to mark the one-year anniversary since the start of the 'Freedom Convoy' protest.
There will be an enhanced police presence and parking restrictions in downtown Ottawa today, as police brace for possible protests and rallies to mark the one-year anniversary of the arrival of the 'Freedom Convoy' demonstration.
The Parliamentary Protective Service says it expects as many as 500 people to gather on Parliament Hill this weekend, and Somerset Coun. Ariel Troster says demonstrators have a permit for a "dance party" on the hill, but not for any events on Wellington Street or other city property.
A Facebook post invites people to attend the "1-year anniversary trucker arrival celebration" on Parliament Hill at 12 p.m. today and Sunday. A dance party is scheduled for 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. today.
Stand Up Canada said on Facebook, "This is a commemoration of the greatest Canadian freedom movement in our lifetime! This is not a protest … it is a gathering of our freedoms, a tribute to the Freedom Convoy."
Ottawa police and Bylaw Services have said there will be "increased enforcement" in the downtown core all weekend, and officers will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to parking, noise and fireworks violations.
"Illegal activity or obstructing or impeding the flow of traffic with vehicles on any roadway will not be tolerated and will be met with swift and immediate action," police said on Twitter.
"During any assemblies, unlawful behaviour will be addressed promptly by Police or By-law to ensure the safety and well-being of the public."
