‘Get a hobby,’ B.C. premier tells those considering protesting COVID-19 mandates

'Get a hobby,' B.C. premier tells those considering protesting COVID-19 mandates
CHEK

A protest planned for around the British Columbia legislature over COVID-19 mandates has drawn sharp criticism from the province’s premier.

A video posted on social media says a convoy of vehicles is on the way from Ottawa to Victoria where people are preparing to stay for months to conduct multiple rolling protests.

In response, Premier John Horgan says those involved need to “get a hobby” and “give their head a shake.”

B.C. lifted its mask mandate on Friday and plans to stop its COVID-19 vaccine passport program in April, although the province’s top doctor says the measures could be reinstated if there is a surge in cases.

Horgan says Victoria police have learned lessons from how Ottawa’s police force handled the protest and that “asking nicely” doesn’t work.

Victoria Police Chief Del Manak says in a video statement that officers have heard concerns from residents about the impact of protests and “any dangerous acts” will be met with de-escalation and enforcement.

Horgan says citizens have a right to protest but they cannot blockade an area when they are upset.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 11, 2022.

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