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Ottawa ‘under siege’ as protests continue for the ninth day

The large-scale protests against COVID-19 measures have been persisting in Ottawa this weekend with some breaking news. Ottawa mayor Jim Watson is declaring a state of emergency to give the city more flexibility to deal with ongoing demonstrations that have overwhelmed local resources.
Ottawa council, councillor Diane Deans says, “This city is under siege, these protestors are emboldened by the lack of enforcement by every level of government.”
The city of Ottawa is on day 9 and as of Sunday, in a state of emergency where thousands have been clogging the streets, building a shelter, and non-stop noise can be heard around Parliament Hill, frustrating residents, and businesses. With the self-proclaimed freedom convoy showing no signs of an end, Police chief Peter Sloly says resources and legislative powers are thin and city officials are pointing to provincial and federal authorities.
Premier Doug Ford tweeted out Sunday, “While we cannot direct the police, we have provided the city of Ottawa everything they have asked for and will continue to provide whatever support they request.”
CHCH parliament correspondent Christopher Guly believes at this point military action on the ground is unlikely. “The police chief suggested that might be the option because they’re at their limit, the risk of soldiers hitting the streets of Ottawa would be pretty unprecedented.”
Ottawa police took to Twitter today, warning protestors that if demonstration supports are brought in they may be arrested. Ottawa’s chief of police reiterated this week that support from all levels of government is there including intelligence into foreign interference. A security expert with Queens University Christian Leuprecht says more could be done federally. “Passing Australian type foreign interference legislation, that would allow the government to shut down sources of money, if the Prime Minister is concerned, we have tool kits at our disposal.”
CHCH News did reach out to the Prime Minister’s office today and asked if any further action will be taken on Trudeau’s part, we have not received a response yet. It is unclear what exactly this state of emergency declaration will mean for Ottawa. The mayors office says the decision gives the city some additional powers around procurement and delivery of services to the front line.