Bas-Rhin bans “freedom convoys” during Strasbourg plenary session – EURACTIV.com
So-called “freedom convoys” will be banned in Strasbourg from February 14 to 17 so that there are no disruptions during the plenary session of the European Parliament, the Bas-Rhin prefecture decided on Monday.
The prefecture justified its decision after noting that “several road convoys seem to have planned to reach Strasbourg” at the same time as the plenary session of the European Parliament.
Demonstrators have indicated that they could go to the surroundings of the EU institutions in Strasbourg to present their demands, linked in particular to the abolition of the vaccine pass.
Given the risks of “public order disturbances” which could prevent the plenary from taking place “in good conditions” and the obstruction of road traffic, the prefecture decided that all demonstrations would be prohibited.
Police forces were deployed on the roads leading to Strasbourg, as in Paris and other French cities last weekend. Security around EU institutions has also been strengthened.
“The prefect has given firm instructions to the internal security forces with regard to any violator of these provisions,” reads the press release from the prefecture. Anyone who violates these provisions is liable to a fine of up to €7,500 and a prison sentence of up to six months.
(Davide Basso | EURACTIV.fr)