Toronto trucker convoy protest: We must do 'everything we can' to avoid what we see in Ottawa, Mayor John Tory urges

Toronto Mayor John Tory released a statement on Thursday following reports of a “Convoy for Freedom” protest possibly heading to the city this weekend.

“Police are continuing to gather information about this possible protest and will have a public update for residents and the business community tomorrow,” the statement reads.

“I want to be absolutely clear that I support Toronto Police taking necessary action to prepare for this protest with a focus on doing everything they can to protect the safety of Toronto residents and businesses and to minimize any disruptions to Toronto residents and businesses as much as possible.”

Tory goes on to state that he supports “the right of all Canadians to peaceful, respectful protest” but added that Toronto “must do everything we can to avoid the type of situation currently faced by Ottawa residents and businesses.”

Joe Cressy, city councillor and chair of the Toronto Board of Health tweeted that “hate and interference with hospitals will not be tolerated.”

“People have a right to protest, of course. And our city has a duty to protect those who live & work here,” Cressy tweeted.

In an update on Wednesday, Ottawa police said they charged one man criminally and laid 30 traffic tickets.

“Police laid eight charges for unnecessary noise (honking of horns), one for transporting dangerous goods (insecure fuel cans), one for improper muffler, four for disobeying signs, two for driving the wrong way in one way traffic, one unsafe lane change, one distracted driving, six speeding, one running a stop sign and five document offences,” the information from Ottawa police reads.

One driver was charged for driving while criminally prohibited and the vehicle was impounded.

Ottawa police are also asking the public to review photographs and video of the suspect in the desecration of the National War Memorial from Jan. 29, seeking assistance to identify the individual.

Anyone with information on the identity of this person should contact the Ottawa Police Central Investigations Section at 613-236-1222, ext. 5166.