Statement on mandate protests in Ottawa

OTTAWA - Today, Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph, released the following statement:

"Everyone has the right to peacefully protest, and indeed it is a cornerstone of our democracy. Unfortunately, this past weekend those rights were exercised and pushed beyond their reasonable limits. Canadians have had to endure images of racist symbols such as swastikas and confederate flags being displayed on parliament hill, while monuments honouring the memory and sacrifice of our veterans and Terry Fox have been desecration. Traffic impediments have meant that emergency personnel have been unable to care for and serve the public."

"Despite these demonstrations, our government remains committed to working to end the pandemic and protecting Canadians. That means encouraging vaccination and defending fairness for the vast majority of Canadians who are doing the right thing by getting vaccinated. The reality is that vaccines save lives, and it is irresponsible and scientifically inaccurate to suggest otherwise."

"As parliament resumes, I am in Ottawa and my priority remains representing Guelphites. I am dedicated to working on fulfilling our government's commitments, such as strengthening the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, reaching a deal to provide $10 per day childcare to residents of Guelph, achieving net zero emissions, and working towards meaningful and lasting reconciliation with the Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis peoples of Canada."