Granting standing groups or individuals allows them certain privileges in the investigation process, including the ability to propose witnesses or cross-examine them. It also means that they are notified in advance of documents submitted as evidence. Prime Minister Justin Trinto referred to the act on February 14 – for the first time in Canadian history – during the Freedom Escort. The law gave the federal government temporary powers to deal with anti-COVID-19 restrictions that barred Ottawa for three weeks last winter as protesters parked trucks blocking access to the neighborhood and major arteries around Parliament. Paul Rouleau, the commissioner in charge of the investigation, wrote in his decision that the deadline for submitting the investigation report had burdened his final decision. “I have to keep in mind the practical realities facing the commission, including the strict timeline within which the inquiry must be completed,” Rollo wrote. The federal government, the governments of Saskatchewan and Alberta have come into full force, and the government of Manitoba will have the opportunity to submit written comments. The main convoy organizers, including Tamara Lich, Tom Marazzo, Chris Barber and Daniel Bulford, have taken a full stand. “Their contribution to the work of the committee is essential, as they are in a unique location to provide information to the committee and to provide first-hand information on the objectives and organization of the escort,” Rouleau wrote of the organizers. The Ottawa Police Department is in full swing, and former Chief of Staff Peter Slolly will be able to produce documents and examine witnesses. The cities of Ottawa and Windsor have also entered into force. Protesters blockade the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ont., Which connects the city with Michigan. (Darrin Di Carlo / CBC)
Conservative, individual participants refused
The Federal Conservative Party and individual protesters are some notable exclusions in Rouleau’s decision. During the Conservatives’ dismissal, Rollo pointed to the parliamentary committee examining the use of the act and said that the investigation should remain above the political controversy. “The political process involving elected representatives from the various parties can play a role in how the use of the emergency law is reviewed and evaluated,” Roulo said. “There is also an important role for an independent non-partisan process. Both must operate independently of each other.” Several individual protesters, including some who had frozen their bank accounts, also refused to take part in the investigation. Rouleau argued that individual protesters would have a limited perspective on what unfolded earlier this year. “In general, their contribution would be limited to what they saw, heard or experienced from their own vantage point as a participant or supporter of the escort,” Rouleau said, adding that individuals would be able to hear their voices in public. hearings. The final report of the committee must be submitted by February 2023.
