The Regina Police Service has provided a response on the Unifor and Co-op lockout saying the city is not in jeopardy, but the Co-op refinery is the only site where they have concerns.
RPS stated in a media release late Monday afternoon that they respect the union’s right to a peaceful, lawful and safe protest, while they respect Co-op’s right to operate as a business.
However they say there are issues regarding the actions taken during this dispute.
“We are concerned about the ongoing illegal actions and the violation of the court order by members of both Unifor Local #594 and Unifor National and anyone else who participates in the blockade. These matters remain the subject of ongoing investigation,” stated Regina Police.
“As long as there are civil remedies available to resolve this situation, they must be fully explored by the involved parties. We believe that the Contempt of Court application scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 6, is the appropriate mechanism for ending the blockade. For the effective functioning of a democracy, police must be independent of elected officials.”
Emergency vehicles still have access in and out of the complex to ensure community safety needs are met.