For the first time since its inception in the 80s, the Emergencies Act has been invoked in Canada.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his decision to invoke the Act today, to help end the on-going “Freedom Convoy” in Ottawa.
Under the Act, the federal government can take “special temporary measures, which may not be appropriate in normal times”.
Earlier in the day, a number of premiers spoke out against Trudeau’s decision, saying the Act was not needed in their provinces.
Premiers from Alberta, Quebec, Manitoba, and Saskwatchewan all called the measure unnecessary, and hinted that it may have unintended consequences in the theatre of public opinion.
BC, however, by way of Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth, gave their support to the use of the Act.
Many of the protesters have said that they intend to remain in place in Ottawa, and continue the rally, despite the declaration.
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