By Canadian Press

Inquiry into government’s use of Emergencies Act starting today in Ottawa

Oct 13, 2022 | 2:02 AM

OTTAWA — The public inquiry investigating the federal government’s unprecedented use of the Emergencies Act in February begins today in downtown Ottawa.

Parties to the inquiry including “Freedom Convoy” organizers, the prime minister, seven federal ministers, police forces and officials from all levels of government are expected to appear in the coming weeks.

Commissioner Paul Rouleau and his staff are expected to spend the first day presenting documents and evidence ahead of witness testimony starting Friday.

The hearings at Library and Archives Canada will be livestreamed and members of the public can share their views with the commission online.

The federal Liberals used the Emergencies Act for the first time to give authorities greater powers amid border blockades and the occupation of downtown Ottawa by protesters demonstrating against COVID-19 vaccine mandates and lockdowns.

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The 1988 act requires that a public inquiry be held to review decisions to invoke it, and a report from the commission is mandated by early next year.

Alberta’s Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Tyler Shandro issued the following statement about the inquiry on the use of the federal Emergencies Act:

“A legally mandated inquiry into the federal government’s decision to invoke the Emergencies Act will begin on Oct. 13.

“Alberta is one of two provinces to apply for and be granted full standing to actively participate in all aspects of the inquiry.

“Alberta will demonstrate that the Coutts border blockade was effectively dealt with prior to the federal government’s decision to invoke the Emergencies Act.

“The decision to invoke the act violated the constitutionally guaranteed rights of Albertans and gave the federal government the ability to seize property without due process of law.

“In addition to participating in the inquiry, Alberta filed notice to intervene in legal challenges initiated against the federal government by the Canadian Constitution Foundation and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association earlier this year.

“Alberta already had the legislative tools necessary to deal with blockades. The unnecessary invocation of the Emergencies Act has set a dangerous precedent and it is incumbent upon Alberta to challenge the violation of the rights of Albertans and all Canadians.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 13, 2022.

The Canadian Press

(With files from rdnewsNOW)