This morning, Maxime Bernie, leader of the federal People’s Party of Canada and a former candidate for the leadership of the Conservative Party, spoke in Niverville around 11:30 a.m. in Hespeler Park at an anti-mask and anti-restrictions rally. Later in the day, he was arrested by RCMP officers.
Prior to the event, Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck had indicated that the RCMP were aware of the event and would be on site to provide enforcement.
“The Town of Niverville is aware of a rally planned for June 11 at Hespeler Park,” the town stated in a social media post. “The town does not condone a public gathering that would be in violation of the provincial public health orders. RCMP have been made aware and will be on site to provide enforcement. Residents are advised to stay home or avoid the area.”
Also, the provincial government released a statement advising people to stay away from a series of planned rallies over the course of the weekend. Bernier’s itinerary had him popping up in nine communities throughout southeastern Manitoba.
“Enforcement officials are aware of and will be present at upcoming rallies planned for communities across Manitoba that are in violation of the current public health orders,” read a provincial government news release on Friday morning. “Officials also note that they have reached out to rally organizers to communicate gathering size requirements and to reinforce 14-day self-isolation periods for any participants coming into Manitoba… Manitobans are reminded that should they choose to attend these rallies, they should be aware that they will be monitored, and that enforcement officials will be present to conduct surveillance and gather video and other evidence that will be used to lay charges.”
Online photos of the Niverville event show approximately one dozen attendees.
“Just got another ticket for my presence at the Niverville event,” wrote Bernier on his Twitter feed, “and the officer warned me that I could be arrested if I go to other rallies.”
After speaking in Niverville, Bernier proceeded to St. Pierre-Jolys for another rally at 2:00 p.m., against the officer’s advice. He was then arrested by RCMP officers and taken into custody.
