Medical workers concerned about frequent displays of threats and intimidation

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is concerned about a growing trend that began during the onset of the pandemic and has continued to become more of an issue as the pandemic has persisted.

What started as online harassment has become threats and in-person intimidation, including protests outside private residences of Saskatchewan’s chief medical officer of health and Quebec’s National Public Health Officer.

It has gotten to the point where the CMA is urging law enforcement bodies to intervene to prevent further escalation.

“Peaceful protests are an important feature of our democracy, but these recent demonstrations have crossed a crucial line between free speech and willful intimidation,” Ann Collins, president of the CMA, said in a news release.

“Public health officials and health care workers in Canada have been working tirelessly—under stressful and very challenging conditions—since the beginning of the pandemic to keep Canadians healthy and safe. They deserve nothing short of our full appreciation and respect,” she continued.