The safety of all travellers on Highway 17 is top priority for Provincial Police, as the ‘Freedom Convoy’ of transports approaches our region.

“The OPP are aware of the ‘Freedom Convoy’ that will be passing through the Northwest Region this week,” says Constable Brittany Bembeneck with the Dryden OPP. “The OPP’s role is to ensure public safety and keep the peace. The OPP Provincial Liaison team will be conduct outreach to work with event organizers to ensure the mandate of public traffic safety is met.”

Constable Bembeneck notes, the convoy may cause delays or interrupt traffic.

“As specific delays become known, the OPP will forward information to media outlets for broadcast as well as on it’s own social media channels and the OPP thanks everyone for their patience in dealing with the traffic delays.”

Sargeant Mike Golding released this statement on behalf of Thunder Bay OPP:

Yes we are very aware of this convoy coming through….we do not have an exact figure on how many trucks are involved at this moment. We have several units including our Provincial Liaison Team currently interacting with the group. We also have our Regional Traffic Manager and local members engaged to ensure that the safety of all road users is paramount. The OPP role is to ensure public safety and keep the peace. We will be posting any issues on social media to keep the public up to date on any potential concerns or delays. We are asking that everyone be patient and respectful of each other despite any inconvenience

The schedule for ‘Freedom Convoy 2022’ has the transports arriving in Ignace at noon Wednesday and then Thunder Bay at 4:00 p.m.

Acadia News has reached out to Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) for comment on preparations

 

With files from Sarah McCarthy CKDR