(Jake Zacharias/ LethbridgeNewsNow)

By Tiffany Goodwein

Alberta opposition leader condemns Coutts blockade

Jan 30, 2022 | 1:30 PM

COUTTS, AB– Alberta NDP leader Rachel Notley has issued a statement condemning the convoy at the Coutts border crossing. The event was put on in support of the Convoy in Ottawa.

“The Alberta NDP unequivocally condemns the blockade of the border near Coutts as well as the many examples of hateful symbols and vandalism seen across Canada this weekend.

“The blockade of emergency vehicles to Albertans in need, and the disruption in the flow of vital goods through our major transportation corridor, is both dangerous and disgraceful. It puts lives at risk, hurts our economy, and hurts families. To put it bluntly, a small group first claiming to be concerned about the possibility of grocery shortages have now most assuredly caused them., ” Notley stated.

Yesterday Alberta RCMP Issued a travel advisory for Hwy. 4 South of Lethbridge, due to heavy congestion and slow-moving traffic.

” The AB RCMP ask that participants in the convoy on Hwy 4 prevent a full blockage of the highway as this will restrict or prevent a response to emergencies such as medical, fire, collisions or other emergency events and may jeopardize the safety of Albertans,” RCMP said in a Tweet yesterday afternoon.

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According to our media partners Global News, vehicles are still participating in the blockade, and protesters have blocked access to the village of Coutts, making it challenging for emergency vehicles to get in and out.

Notley urged Premier Jason Kenney to denounce the blockade and “restore full access to Coutts for emergency vehicles and transportation”.

She also said the premier should ” formally direct his MLA for Taber-Warner to end his participation in this blockade of Alberta’s economy.”

In a press release issued Sunday, the Canada Border Service Agency announced that the Coutts border crossing is open but drivers should expect extensive delays.

Travelers are advised to use other ports of entry and consult the Directory of CBSA Offices and Services to confirm hours of service before they head out.

In a recent Tweet, Alberta RCMP said that traffic is still immobilized , and motorists are asked to stay away from Hwy. 4 South of Lethbridge.

With files from Global News and Lethbridge News Now