That’s it from me, Tom Ambrose, and indeed the global Covid blog for this evening.
For all your latest coronavirus news, click here. Thank you for following along today and have a lovely weekend.
Police in Canada’s capital have called in reinforcements as a planned anti-vaccine mandate protest began to swell in numbers.
Several thousand people are expected in Ottawa as part of group demanding an end to vaccine mandates and Covid restrictions. Some of the group’s leaders are calling for a peaceful event, but statements from some associated with the group have included threats of violence.
Ottawa police are working with national security agencies to identify any potential threats to public safety, chief Peter Sloly said during a press briefing on Friday.
“Even during the course of this conference call we’ve had new intelligence coming in regards to local threats,” he said.
A top parliament security official has warned lawmakers to lock their doors amid reports their private homes may be targeted, the Associated Press reported.
Trucks and cars began rolling into downtown Ottawa at midday on Friday, as a planned anti-vaccine mandate protest grew. They have set up in the streets around Parliament Hill for the weekend – and possibly longer.
Vehicles lined the north side of the main street outside, far past the parliament buildings. Thus far the atmosphere has been generally party-like with some setting up barbecues on the sidewalk, and many honking horns, playing instruments and blaring music.
Updated
