The Liberals argued invoking the law was needed to end border blockades and the occupation of downtown Ottawa by protesters demonstrating against COVID-19 vaccine mandates, lockdowns and the government. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association argued at the time that the government had not met the threshold for declaring an emergency. The judge leading the public inquiry warned of tight timelines as he urged everyone to work together to enlighten Canadians. The inquiry is also distinct from the all-party parliamentary committee struck to review the Emergencies Act’s use in March. Both the public inquiry and the parliamentary committee, which continues its work, are required under the Emergencies Act.

Source: CBC News October 13, 2022 14:09 UTC