Treasury Secretary Chrystia Freeland also announced late Monday afternoon that crowdfunding platforms, some of which have been used to raise funds for protesters, are now subject to oversight by the Center for Analysis of Financial Transactions and Reports of Canada (FINTRAC).

This decision, which should become permanent, will make it possible FINTRAC transmit more information to the authorities, stressed Ms Freeland, who also holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister.

” We’re making these changes because we know these platforms are being used to support illegal blockades and illegal activities that are hurting Canada’s economy. »

Ms Freeland also revealed that under the Emergency Act, the government has allowed banks to sever ties with their customers, both individuals and businesses, who they suspect are funding the lockdowns. Accounts can now be frozen without court approval.

Banks protected from lawsuits

She said it would protect the banks from civil lawsuits. The government has ordered financial institutions to reconsider their relationship with anyone involved in the blockades and to report relevant information to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).

Chrystia Freeland describes these actions as a money-hunting strategy to end funding for these illegal blockades.

In addition to banks, insurance companies can also suspend the insurance policies of their private or business customers involved in the blockades in Ottawa or at the border without notice.

The country’s major banks did not respond to inquiries from The Canadian Press, while the Canadian Bankers Association declined to comment on the matter.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked the emergency law in an effort to end anti-government blockades, which he says are illegal sieges and have nothing to do with peaceful protests.