Letters to the editor

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Rights and wrongs of protests

You were wrong to criticise Justin Trudeau’s handling of the protests in Canada (“No, Canada”, February 19th). These were not protesters. These were occupiers who said they would not leave until their demands were met. You said the police already had ample powers to quell the disorder, and yet it took two court injunctions to stop the incessant air horns and honking. The police had to deal with a core group showing utter disregard for the rights of Ottawa’s residents to enjoy their homes. Invoking the Emergencies Act was necessary to remove them.

This was more than a question of free speech. We were dealing with a group of well-funded bullies. This was not a regular protest. This was something else.

MADELEINE CôTE
Gatineau, Canada