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Organizer of COVID-19 rally fined by Nelson police

A group protested health restrictions outside City Hall on Saturday
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Nelson City Hall was the site of a public rally of 75 people on Saturday. Photo: File photo

The Nelson Police Department fined a Winlaw woman $2,300 on Feb. 6 after she organized a rally in contravention of the COVID-19 Emergency Program Act.

The rally took place in front of Nelson City Hall, including on the Ward Street sidewalk, with about 75 people carrying signs and listening to speakers discussing COVID-19 guidelines and laws. Thereafter, about 45 of the participants marched on Baker Street, according to a police news release.

Police said the event was peaceful.

Fines under the COVID-19 Measures Act and can run between $230 and $2,300.

“The public are being asked to ensure compliance of the British Columbia Public Health Order,” the news release states, “specifically the COVID-19 Related Measures Act, and individuals who fail to comply could face fines.”

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