Quebec truckers will protest Monday morning in Ottawa-Gatineau, affecting traffic on the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge and surrounding routes.
Truckers Set to Hit Ottawa-Gatineau Roads
Monday morning commuters in Ottawa-Gatineau should anticipate delays as a group of protesting Quebec truckers takes to the streets. Organized by the group Assez c’est assez. Sauvons l’industrie du camionnage, the demonstration aims to highlight concerns over trucking regulations and safety enforcement.
Rally Points and Planned Route
According to a Facebook post by the group, participants will gather at the IGA on La Vérendrye Boulevard in Gatineau before beginning their convoy at 5 a.m. Truckers will travel west along Highway 50 toward Hull, cross the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge into Ottawa, then return along the same route.
Traffic Disruptions Expected
The Ottawa Police Service warned that one lane of the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge will be closed from 6 a.m. to approximately 9 a.m. Drivers should expect slower traffic on key routes including Dalhousie Street, Boteler Street, Sussex Drive, and King Edward Avenue. Police confirmed an increased presence to ensure safety for all road users.
Reasons Behind the Protest
The group is calling for a return of roadside checkpoints and stricter enforcement against illegal drivers. Their aim is to safeguard the trucking industry and promote road safety standards within Quebec and beyond.
Broader Quebec Demonstrations
This protest is part of a wider series of actions planned across Quebec, including in Montreal, Quebec City, and Trois-Rivières. Organizers hope the coordinated demonstrations will draw attention to their demands at a provincial level.
Authorities Urge Caution
Ottawa police are urging commuters to plan extra travel time and use alternative routes if possible. Authorities emphasize that the demonstration is intended to remain peaceful, with traffic safety measures in place to minimize disruptions.