The Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs of Manitoba Organization admits there could be long traffic tie-ups at the Ontario/Manitoba boundary.
Jerry Daniels says they plan to stage a protest today (Friday, August 9th) starting at 5:30.
He says the blockade of the Trans-Canada Highway is clearly aimed at Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister.
Daniels says “The way he conducts himself and how he treats First Nations. All we have seen is the erosion of our rights and the taking away and digging into our pockets.”
Daniels says instead of complaining about the long traffic tie-ups, motorists should join them and dance along side the road.
He notes “we don’t want to cause people problems. We just want to be heard and be treated fairly. I think every person, every human being deserves that.
Daniels calls the current events in Manitoba a serious issue and that’s why they have planned the blockade.
However, Daniels states they only plan to hold up traffic for about five to ten minutes at a time.
A spokesperson for the Manitoba RCMP says they are aware of the planned protest, and will both respect and protect the right to lawful action.
They add their only role will be to ensure the safety of the parties involved, and they will be notifying the public via social media about the expected delays.
Ontario Provincial Police state they will be on site during the protest to ensure public safety, and their focus remains on everything ending safely.
