Organizers of a convoy of protesters expected to head for Campbell River on Saturday have said they are working to get participants to sign a code of conduct prior to the event.
Terms of the code of conduct are not yet known, but will be shared with Campbell River RCMP as soon as possible, said Peter Wipper, Campbell River director of community safety. “We don’t have anything in our hands right now.”
Campbell River Mayor Andy Adams said the convoy could include up to 100 cars and some big rigs. “Hopefully that’s all it is.”
While a destination point hasn’t been named, Adams said Spirit Square in downtown Campbell River would provide a large open space.
Adams said some Campbell River residents are worried about vehicles blocking traffic and impeding access to businesses — similar to concerns raised by those living or working near the legislature precinct in Victoria during regular protests against pandemic-related health measures.
Rallies against the health measures have been going on at the legislature for weeks, leading to congestion, persistent horn honking and complaints from area residents.
Victoria police began last weekend blocking all but local traffic in the legislature area to limit noise and disruption. Council also eased the process to ticket those honking horns.
B.C. RCMP Const. Alex Berube said police have heard reports of people involved in the upcoming convoy camping near Shawnigan Lake.
He said he doesn’t know how many people have been camping but whoever’s organizing it is liaising with the “appropriate authorities.”
The plan to converge on Campbell River rather than Victoria emerged in response to police efforts to control traffic flow around the legislature and James Bay.
