Eviction notices have been given to two long-standing encampments on the grounds of the Manitoba legislature.
Several police officers were present on Wednesday when the notices were given to demonstrators on the north and east sides of the legislative assembly building.
A statement from Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen’s office said the rallies and protests were acceptable within reason.
But, the statement said, encampments are not permitted for the safety of staff, visitors, tourists and other protesters.
The move comes after the Progressive Conservative government passed legislation earlier this year to tackle the camps.
It gives the cabinet the power to determine what can and cannot happen under legislative authority, which includes banning encampments, vandalism and vehicle blockades.
It also prohibits lighting fires, brandishing weapons, and leaving generators, firewood, or other camp maintenance items.
“These regulations bring Manitoba into line with other jurisdictions in Canada, regardless of political affiliation,” Goertzen’s office said in a statement.
Manitoba law enforcement officers take the lead in all interactions with the camps, the statement said. Winnipeg police said officers are assisting the province.
The government did not say how long it took the camps to leave the area.
One of the camps that was notified has been in place for more than a year and includes several tents, flags and other structures. It was created after the discovery of possible unmarked graves on the sites of former dormitories.
A second camp appeared around June and included a large tipi on the front lawn. It was previously linked to vehicles parked nearby that had messages posted on them defying public health restrictions against COVID-19.
Last summer, a statue of Queen Victoria was toppled and beheaded during a Canada Day demonstration after the graves were discovered. A statue of Queen Elizabeth was also toppled.
Earlier this year, protesters opposing the COVID-19 restrictions also blocked the streets outside the legislature for nearly three weeks.
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