Protester Jamy Lee Foss captured footage of himself and Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers in full riot gear outside Confederation Building on Thursday morning. The atmosphere was tense as the government of Newfoundland and Labrador prepared to present its provincial budget amidst opposition from political parties.
The NDP and Progressive Conservative parties announced they would not be attending the budget presentation in light of ongoing protests by hundreds of fish harvesters outside Confederation Building in St. John’s. The protesters are demanding changes in the fishing industry, including the freedom to sell their catch to buyers outside the province and the lifting of processing limits on independent fish plants.
Tensions escalated as the protest continued, with police officers in riot gear and tactical gear stationed outside the building. The government proceeded with the budget presentation despite safety concerns, relocating press briefings due to media outlets opting not to cross the protest line under police surveillance.
The protesters, led by John Efford Jr., pledged to remain peaceful and avoid confrontation. Efford emphasized the need for concrete solutions from the government to address their demands for changes in the fishing industry, particularly with crab season approaching.
The Association of Seafood Producers cancelled a planned news conference, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation. The police were enforcing a court-ordered injunction preventing protesters from blocking access to the building and interfering with public servants.
Despite the disruptions and clashes that occurred during the protests, Premier Andrew Furey remained steadfast in his commitment to introducing the budget for the benefit of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. The situation remained volatile, with police presence heightened as the protest continued.
The developments in the ongoing protest at Confederation Building will be closely monitored throughout the day, with updates provided as the situation unfolds. For the latest news and alerts on this issue, download the free CBC News app or visit our landing page for more information.
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