The Federal Court of Canada deems Trudeau’s use of emergency legislation “unreasonable”
The Federal Court of Canada has ruled that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s use of emergency legislation to suppress the “freedom convoy” protests in 2022 was deemed “unreasonable.” The court specifically highlighted the freezing of bank accounts and crypto for individuals associated with the protest as an unjustified infringement of civil rights. However, it rejected claims of other rights violations. Justice Richard Mosley stated that the Emergencies Act should only be used as a last resort, and in this case, there were alternative tools available. In response to strict COVID-19 protocols, protests erupted in Canada in 2022, leading the government to use the National Emergency Act to bypass financial protocols.
Crypto used to support truck convoy protesters frozen
During the protests, some Canadians turned to cryptocurrencies as a means of support. However, the Ontario Provincial Police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police directed regulated financial institutions to freeze transactions from 34 crypto wallets linked to funding the protests. These wallets held dozens of Bitcoin (BTC) and other altcoins. The government justified its actions under the National Emergency Act, which granted it authority to access and freeze bank accounts without a court order. The recent court ruling has raised questions about potential damages for those affected by the Emergencies Act, as the government plans to appeal the decision.
Uncertainty remains for affected individuals
The impact of the court ruling on those impacted by the Emergencies Act and their ability to sue the government for damages remains uncertain. While the ruling deemed Trudeau’s use of emergency legislation unreasonable, it is unclear how this will affect potential legal action against the government. The freezing of bank accounts and crypto assets without a court order has been deemed an infringement on civil rights. However, with the government planning to appeal the decision, the final outcome is yet to be determined. The ruling has highlighted the importance of considering alternative tools before invoking emergency legislation.
Hot Take: Canadian Court Ruling Against Trudeau’s Use of Emergency Legislation
The recent Federal Court of Canada ruling against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s use of emergency legislation to suppress protests raises significant concerns about civil rights and the government’s authority. By deeming the freezing of bank accounts and crypto assets as unjustified, the court emphasizes the need for emergency measures to be used as a last resort. This decision also highlights the role of cryptocurrencies in protest movements and how they challenge traditional financial systems. As the government plans to appeal the ruling, the future remains uncertain for those affected by the Emergencies Act. This case serves as a reminder that even in times of crisis, civil liberties must be protected.
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