By Canadian Press

Federal government plans to consult widely before any changes to Emergencies Act

Mar 6, 2024 | 8:15 AM

OTTAWA — The federal government is open to changing the Emergencies Act but says it first wants to consult widely on the law it invoked to quell “Freedom Convoy” protests two years ago.

In its response to the public inquiry’s findings, the Liberal government outlines steps it is taking to improve the flow of intelligence and protect key transportation corridors.

However, the government plays down any need to make many of the commission’s suggested changes to policing protocols. 

Justice Paul Rouleau made 56 recommendations, with almost two dozen specifically related to the emergencies law itself.

In early February 2022, downtown Ottawa was besieged by protesters and the demonstrations soon spread to key border crossings across Canada.

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Initially billed as a protest against COVID-19 health restrictions, the gatherings attracted people with various grievances against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 6, 2024.

The Canadian Press