Legislature entrances blocked by demonstrators, Throne Speech will go on
Posted February 11, 2020 9:24 am.
Last Updated February 11, 2020 1:54 pm.
VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — Security at the B.C. Legislature is on high alert while all entrances to the parliament buildings are blocked by demonstrators.
What started as a few protesters gathered on the lawn outside the Legislature has grown over a few days. They are showing support for the Wet’suwet’en hereditary leaders who oppose an LNG pipeline.
This comes just hours before the Throne’s Speech at the Legislature.
Today’s throne anything but standard.#Wetsuweten supporters at all entrances.
Here mla @Rob_Fleming @Mike_A_Bernier @ralph_sultan entering with help from @BCLegislature security #bcpoli pic.twitter.com/MZ0hrLbr4u— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) February 11, 2020
MLAs Rob Fleming, Mike Bernier, Greg Kyllo, John Rustad, and Ralph Sultan were escorted by security through the main entrance as protesters chanting “shame,” with some pushing back security. All entrances are being closed off while security negotiates with demonstrators outside to open at least one safe passage.
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Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin was able to enter the building for this afternoon’s speech.
Here’s what is happening right now at the @BCLegislature entrance where LG @LGJanetAustin enters. #bcpoli u pic.twitter.com/4v5xSZqXC9
— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) February 11, 2020
Demonstrators have been camped outside for days while supporters across Canada have shut down rail lines, ports, and bridges. As a result of the encampment, the provincial government has also been forced to cancel the ceremonial Inspection of the Guard of Honour by the lieutenant governor.
Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth says there have been protests at the Legislature before and as long as it is peaceful there shouldn’t be a problem.
“Right now, we’re here to do the government’s work, which is we have to prorogue the House later today and to have the Throne Speech,” he says.
And here is one of the men supporting the #Wetsuweten hereditary chiefs speaking to the crowd. #bcpoli pic.twitter.com/zNWsnYFE0H
— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) February 11, 2020
The Thone Speech is still set to go ahead at 2:00 p.m.
With files from Ash Kelly