Three climate protesters in Ottawa caused significant delays and a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 417 at Woodroffe Avenue on Tuesday morning. The activists climbed highway signs in both directions, displaying banners that read “last generation” in English and French. Their actions have been linked to the climate activist group Last Generation Canada, which has a history of disruptive demonstrations, including interrupting the Juno Awards, painting museum exhibits, and throwing paint on art. The group’s website highlights its demand for a national firefighting agency and warns of further nonviolent disruptive actions until their demands are met.
The protest resulted in the closure of several lanes on both sides of the highway, leading to heavy delays and a multi-vehicle collision. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the crash. Police swiftly responded to the scene and arrested the three individuals involved, charging them with mischief and common nuisance, endangering life. The protesters, comprising two Quebec residents and one Toronto resident, were released and are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
Ottawa Fire Services played a crucial role in safely bringing down the protesters using aerial trucks. The incident highlights the growing trend of climate activism, which often involves disruptive tactics to raise awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change. The Last Generation Canada group’s actions are a reminder of the need for prompt action to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a sustainable future.
