'Winnipeggers want the laws to be enforced': Mayor to call special meeting of council to discuss protest at Manitoba legislature
CTV
Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman says he will be calling a special meeting of council this week to discuss the next steps for the city as a protest outside the Manitoba Legislature continues.
Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman says he will be calling a special meeting of council this week to discuss the next steps for the city as a protest outside the Manitoba Legislature continues.
On Tuesday, Bowman said the protest – which has a large crowd protesting public health restrictions and mandates – is different than any other he has seen during his time as Mayor, calling it a multi-day occupation of public streets.
Bowman said elements of the protest – which is stretching into its fifth day – continue to be unlawful and are disrupting the lives of the general public by restricting access to public streets, and creating noise and harassment.
"We want Winnipeggers to know we are hearing loud and clear from you and what we are hearing is that Winnipeggers want the laws to be enforced," he said.
Bowman said he has relayed the concerns to the city's CAO, Winnipeg police Chief Danny Smyth, chair of police board Markus Chambers, and public safety Minister Kelvin Goertzen.
The mayor said the lead agency in handling the protest is the Winnipeg police, which he said holds authority and responsibility to enforce all laws. He added that provincial laws prevent elected officials from directing the operations of police.
Bowman said he will be formally calling a special meeting of council to be held on Thursday to discuss the next steps the city has to take.
