Lawyers defending two of the main organizers of the truck convoy are expected to present their case Monday to block nine Ottawa residents and business representatives from commenting.
Tamara Lich and Chris Barber are on trial on criminal charges related to their roles in the protest that blocked the streets of downtown Ottawa for weeks last year as several people demonstrated against COVID-19 health measures.
For this second week of its trial, the Crown plans to call five Ottawa residents as witnesses in the case, including Zexi Li, who filed a class-action lawsuit against organizers on behalf of people who live and work in the federal capital’s downtown area.
The Crown also plans to call the owner of a women’s clothing store, as well as employees of the National Arts Centre, the Fairmont Château Laurier Hotel and the local public transport operator.
Ms. Lich’s lawyer, Lawrence Greenspon, said he would argue Monday afternoon that those witnesses should not be allowed to testify.
Ms Lich and Mr Barber have already submitted signed confessions to the court acknowledging that the protest disrupted public transport and the lawful use and enjoyment of properties and businesses.