Pipeline Protest Flows Through Downtown Montreal

Prime Minister Hopeful Elizabeth May Attended

NewsWillie Wilson — Published October 12, 2015

The march began at noon in Dorchester Sq. with speeches by activists, including indigenous activist Ellen Gabriel, who drew parallels between the extraction of natural resources and Canada’s history of colonization.

Also in attendance was Elizabeth May, leader of the Federal Green Party.

Line 9B is an existing crude oil pipeline that extends from Ontario to Montreal. The plan that was recently approved by the National Energy Board would see a reversal of the flow of the pipeline towards Montreal. Previously it went westward.

Activists denounced the plan, arguing the further development of fossil fuel infrastructure will accelerate climate change and increase the likelihood of oil spills.

Despite the non-disclosure of the march route to the SPVM, police presence was light and there were no incidents of violence.

The march ended at Norman Bethune Sq. at 2 p.m., where a demonstration against Canada’s treatment of immigrants and refugees was set to begin.