A State of Emergency has been declared in Ontario by Premier Doug Ford.
It’s a response to the protest in Ottawa, which he calls “an illegal occupation”.
The Cabinet will convene on Saturday to, “urgently enact orders that will make crystal clear, it is illegal and punishable to block and impede the movement of goods, people and services along critical infrastructure.”
Ford states the declaration will include protecting international border crossings, 400-series highways, airports, ports, bridges and railways.
It will also include protecting the ambulatory and medical services, public transit, municipal and provincial roadways, as well as pedestrian walkways,
During his statement, Ford called the protests a “siege.”
“It’s an illegal occupation. This is no longer a protest.”
The Premier also spoke directly to the demonstrators to “please, go home.”
The Premier adds there will be repercussions for any violator that does not comply with the orders.
“Fines for non-compliance will be severe, with a maximum penalty of $100,000 and up to a year imprisonment. We will also provide additional authority to consider taking away the personal and commercial licenses of anyone who doesn’t comply with these orders.”
Both OPP and RCMP are adding more officers on the streets and other aides.
Meantime, Ford also responded to comments from the Chief Medical Officer of Health who suggested future plans about the government’s mandates and restrictions were coming.
He says Dr. Kieran Moore is developing a plan that would end the use of vaccine passports, but no details or timelines were given. Ford says the province is on track with the next wave of eased restrictions.
That’s scheduled to happen on February 21.
Ford did not indicate that anything would be moved ahead of schedule.
