Federal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau says it is time for border blockades across the country to end, contending they are affecting the safe movement of livestock, feed and goods and hurting farmers.
“While we respect the rights of all Canadians to protest, the unlawful occupation of major border crossings must end,” Bibeau said in a statement Monday, following a meeting with representatives of the Canadian meat industry.
Later on Monday evening, the federal government officially invoked Emergencies Act, which will give Ottawa temporary powers to handle ongoing blockades and protests against pandemic restrictions.
“When I met with industry leaders, they told me that the blockade is having a significant impact on the livelihood of Canadian farm families and businesses who cannot sustain any more delays,” Bibeau said. “I also heard that shipments of animals are being delayed and cancelled, which is creating serious risks to animal welfare. We must ensure that animals, feed and ingredients can flow smoothly across the border. This is essential to support producers and protect the welfare of animals travelling between Canada and the U.S.”