Emergencies Act

Figures behind the protests blockading Parliament Hill and various border crossings are championing new ways to finance their movement — including through their own crypto token — as Ottawa invokes sweeping powers to crack down on their cash flow.

Trucks, RVs and other vehicles with Canadian flags or banners with the word "freedom'' in giant letters along their front grilles remain on Wellington Street in front of Parliament Hill, with drivers saying they will stay put until all COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions are lifted.

Bringing children to the antigovernment blockades that have immobilized downtown Ottawa and shuttered border crossings is among the activities that could net protesters a fine of up to $5,000 or five years in prison while Canada is under the national Emergencies Act.

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino made the announcement following the resignation of Ottawa police chief Peter Sloly

An already grim employment toll looked set to worsen on Thursday, April 2, 2020, as authorities pondered further tightening restrictions on people and businesses to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep the pandemic from suffocating the health-care system.

Police forces in Canada are getting extra powers, more flexibility and even help from citizens reporting on one another as governments seek to enforce decrees aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19.

The Emergencies Act, Canada's "measure of last resort," is getting more attention as Members of Parliament prepare a legislative package for Tuesday to battle COVID-19.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's tone hardened on Monday, March 23, 2020, as he warned Canadians ignoring COVID-19 mitigation measures that "enough is enough."

Canada needs a more unified approach in the fight against COVID-19 and the feds "will not hesitate" to step in with stronger measures if provinces can't make it happen, the health minister said on Sunday, March 22, 2020.