Covid: Protests in Canada and France, and end of self-isolation a ‘step too far’on February 13, 2022 at 4:19 am

Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Sunday. We’ll have another update for you tomorrow morning.

Following days of protests by truckers against Canada’s coronavirus rules, police have started to clear a blockade of a main crossing to the United States. Truckers have been blocking the Ambassador Bridge, which is a vital trade route linking Windsor, Ontario with Detroit, Michigan. Protesters oppose Covid vaccine mandates, with gatherings at other border crossings and in Ottawa. Here, we look at whether Canadian PM Justin Trudeau is losing his fight against the truckers.

There have also been protests in Europe, with the self-styled Canadian “Freedom Convoy” inspiring groups in France. Police have intercepted hundreds of vehicles trying to enter Paris. Tear gas was fired in the capital as demonstrators protested against the country’s coronavirus regulations, defying an order banning the convoy. More than 300 tickets were handed out and 54 people arrested, Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said. More than 7,000 officers are being deployed over the next three days to try to stop the demonstrators.

An expert has warned against removing coronavirus self-isolation rules, saying it would be a “step too far” and would risk undoing progress in tackling the virus. Jillian Evans, head of health intelligence at NHS Grampian, urged a slow and cautious move out of the existing restrictions. Under the current rules in Scotland, anyone who tests positive must self-isolate for at least five full days. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that could end in England this month. Read more about how Scottish isolation rules differ from England.

“I just remember her as being such fun and always laughing and always there for everybody. It was a tragedy losing her so young,” says Marcelle Orsi. She and a group of former convent school pupils have created a project in memory of their friend, Sonia Kinsella, who died of cancer. The women – many of whom are key workers – spent months putting together a play about female solidarity and friendship.

Barry Manilow songs on repeat could be magic for many. But not in New Zealand, where authorities have instead used the singer’s greatest hits to drive people away. In an attempt to dispel protestors camped outside the parliament building, songs by the US singer are being played on a 15-minute loop, along with the Spanish dance tune, Macarena. The protests, opposing Covid-19 vaccine mandates, began on Tuesday. Demonstrators have retaliated by playing songs such as Twisted Sister’s We’re Not Gonna Take It.

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If you’re heading for a half term break in the UK here are the Covid rules in each nation.

You can find more information, advice and guides on our coronavirus page.

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