The RCMP has issued a travel advisory in regards to the Coutts, Alta., border crossing. Protesters, demonstrating against federal vaccine mandates, began a blockade at the crossing on January 29, 2022.
The RCMP says it is looking to get the border crossing up and running as soon as possible. The crossing is a busy one for cattle moving from Canada to the U.S., and is a busy trade route for boxed beef.
“We are working with truck drivers who are attempting to disengage from this event so that they are able to do so; however, current conditions have traffic immobilized,” the advisory said, on January 30.
According to the release, the Alberta RCMP will only use “the level of intervention necessary to ensure the safety of all citizens and to maintain peace, order and security,” as they look to facilitate lawful and peaceful protest.
“When an event becomes unlawful we utilize a measured approach, which ultimately includes enforcement. This event is unlawful and we are asking those who are involved to clear the area.”
Read the full release, here.
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney also took to social media in response to the blockade, pointing to the violations of the Alberta Traffic Safety Act.
“This blockade must end,” he wrote.
The blockade of the Coutts border crossing violates the Alberta Traffic Safety Act.
It is causing significant inconvenience for lawful motorists and could dangerously impede movement of emergency service vehicles.
This blockade must end.
My full statement: ? pic.twitter.com/VbXTQTVft8
— Jason Kenney (@jkenney) January 30, 2022