(CARLI BERRY / iNFOnews.ca)
January 09, 2021 - 5:03 PM
The organizer of a Kelowna protest as been issued a $2,300 fine for being in contravention of provincial public health orders.
On Jan. 9 a protest against COVID-19 related measures was held in the downtown area, which included a march.
Kelowna RCMP officers were present to ensure the safety of protesters and the rest of the public, according to the RCMP in a press release.
"People in Canada have a democratic right to a lawful and peaceful protest and the RCMP must use discretion when balancing a citizen’s rights with the current potential health risks associated to large public gatherings. However, if the activities being engaged in are in violation of the provincial public health orders, those involved can face fines," according to the RCMP.
The self-identified organizer of this event has been issued a $2,300 ticket for violating provincial health orders, but the RCMP is not releasing their name. Health orders are currently in effect preventing all social gatherings for the next month.
“Public safety is a priority for the RCMP and we encourage everyone to adhere to the orders being implemented to keep everyone safe and reduce the risks. These orders are not optional,” says Supt. Kara Triance, officer in charge of the Kelowna RCMP, in the press release. “While we will continue to enforce the provisions available to us, we encourage everyone to voluntarily comply with the provincial health orders, so enforcement is not required.”
This is the second $2,300 fine the RCMP has announced it has issued to an organizer of anti-COVID-19 measure protests in Kelowna.
READ MORE: Organizer of Kelowna protest issued $2,300 fine
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