Government officially calls inquiry into use of Emergencies Act against demonstrators

The federal government has called an independent public inquiry into its use of the Emergencies Act during the blockades at border points and demonstrations that occupied the streets of downtown Ottawa as part of a national convoy of trucks and big-rigs.

The demonstrations were in protest of COVID-19 restrictions.

The Emergencies Act was invoked on Feb. 15 and granted powers to police to remove people from the blockades and freeze the bank accounts of those involved.

It it the first time the law has been used in Canada.

Protesters and their supporters could face fines of up to $5,000 or five years in prison during the emergency declaration.

To look into the circumstances that led to the Emergencies Act being invoked earlier this year, and to examine the measures taken in response, we’re establishing an independent public inquiry – and appointing Justice Rouleau as Commissioner. More here: https://t.co/mwD9UsGeaD

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 25, 2022

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the government established the Public Order Emergency Commission which will look at the circumstances that let to the Emergencies Act being used.

“[The circumstances] include the evolution of the convoy, the impact of funding and disinformation, the economic impact, and efforts of police and other responders prior to and after the declaration,” said the government in a press release.

The government says Ontario Appeal Court Justice Paul S. Rouleau has been named commissioner of the inquiry and must provide a final report to the federals government by Feb. 20 next year.