Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act in hopes of ending the trucker convoys and blockades.

The act, which gives significant short-term power to the federal government, hasn't been enforced since it came into effect in the '80s.

Trudeau says the act will be used to protect critical Canadian infrastructure such as borders and airports.

Should they choose to use it, the federal government will have the power to:

  • Allow police to give steeper fines or jail time.
  • Prohibit public assembly or protest in areas that may lead to a breach of the peace.
  • Not allow travel to specified places.
  • Ask anyone to render essential services. In this case, tow truck companies could be ordered to move vehicles.
  • Push financial institutions to freeze accounts of blockade supporters or organizers. Companies with trucks in the blockades could also have their business bank accounts suspended.
  • Broaden the scope of anti-money laundering rules to cover crowdfunding sites.
  • Suspend insurance for businesses involved.

Fines of up to $5,000, up to five years in prison, or both, are possible for those who breach any of the orders.

The federal government said they wouldn't be calling in the military.

“We cannot and will not allow illegal and dangerous activities to continue,” said Trudeau.

The act has already gone into effect; however, a decision now needs to be green lit by Parliament. 

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has said he would support the act, giving the minority Liberals the votes they would need to get the act approved.

The Emergencies Act is in place for 30 days — the time limit can be extended.

More to come...