‘Our residents have been through enough:’ Watson addresses third day of ongoing convoy demonstrations
Posted Jan 31, 2022 10:39:04 PM.
Demonstrators have had their “15 minutes,” now it's time for them to go, Ottawa's Mayor Jim Watson said.
In an address to the media on Monday, January 31, Watson said protesters have had the chance to voice their frustrations against COVID-19 restrictions, but it's “now time to go back to their communities and work with their local MPs.”
He added that demonstrations have impacted the daily lives of residents, especially those who live in the downtown area.
Watson also said the decerebrations of several war monuments and displays of hate symbols has left residents in fear of leaving their homes.
“Many residents have not slept for days due to the noise and disruptions and many have been shut in (due to the crowds) and a lockdown imposed by the crowds.”
He added that the demonstrations has also caused additional stress for those already dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The disruptions have also been costly, with Watson explaining that it has costed Ottawa Police Services (OPS) approximately $800,000 per day.
Small businesses have also incurred costs of keeping their doors closed. Schools and food banks in the city, too, have also been impacted.
He says while people who disagree with different policies have the right to demonstrate, taking out their frustrations on residents, local business owners and staff is unacceptable.
