A representative for the BC Legislature says the occupation of the building’s front steps appears to be a “fluid situation.”
Alan Mullen, chief of staff to B.C. speaker Darryl Plecas spoke to media Thursday afternoon in an effort to “clear up misconceptions” around the arrests of two demonstrators that morning.
He said heightened security concerns have led Plecas and other staff to close the building to the public, but they hope to reopen it “as soon as possible.”
READ ALSO: First arrests made at BC Legislature after demonstrators spray chalk on property
“It’s just out of a heightened concern for security within the precinct when we’re sitting … the decision was made to close it to the public,” he said, adding that pre-approved school groups and pre-arranged meetings are still being permitted inside.
“First and foremost is the safety and security of the precinct as well as everybody within the building here. That’s always going to be our number one concern.”
Chief of Staff to the B.C. Speaker Alan Mullen says the situation with demonstrators outside the @BCLegislature appears to be "fluid." #bcpoli #Wetsuweten #YYJ pic.twitter.com/mGNi2pGQkd
— Nina Grossman (@NinaGrossman) February 27, 2020
The decision comes four days into a second occupation led by Indigenous youth and allied groups demonstrating in support of Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs.
Asked how long he anticipates the demonstration will go on, Mullen said that remains unclear.
“I don’t know, it seems to be a kind of fluid situation for them, they seem to be kind of playing it by ear,” he said. “But we are thankful, like we’ve said, since this began, we are the biggest fans of peaceful and respectful protest.”
Mullen said the morning’s arrests came when legislature security spotted “a couple of people” spray painting in several places on the precinct, including the newly-paved driveway, on the wall “just east of the west annex across the premier’s office,” and behind the library to the back of the building.
Two young women were arrested, taken into custody and charged with mischief, Mullen said. They were then processed and released, with charges still pending. The women have been banned from the property – a ban that may be reviewed in the future.
“It was viewed to be criminal activity – mischief under the criminal code,” he said. “Aside from peaceful protest or any kind of protest, this speaker and I’m sure every speaker will not tolerate, at any time, illegal activity here on the legislative precinct.”
The protective officers did not get orders from the Victoria Police Department, which has had members present on the grounds since Monday when a second occupation began.
Demonstrators on site said security officers were aware that the paint being used was soluble chalk, despite looking like spray paint. The group said a legal observer was on site but “refused access to witness the arrest.”
READ ALSO: Wet’suwet’en supporters occupying legislature in Victoria hold mass day-long teach-in
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