MILLBROOK - Northbound traffic through Millbrook will be reduced to one lane for much of Friday during a "peaceful protest" being held in opposition to Bill C-45.
Halifax-bound traffic, meanwhile, will be disrupted by being rerouted off the highway at Exit 13A at the Truro Power Centre before being allowed to proceed.
"It will be along the 102, a peaceful protest demonstration/information in regards to Bill C-45," Millbrook First Nations chief Robert Gloade said.
The traffic slowdown will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. No demonstrations are expected to take place on the old highway through Millbrook into Hilden.
Gloade said the protest is being held on behalf of aboriginal and non-aboriginal peoples alike because of concerns related to the more than 400-page bill, which is set to impact 90 pieces of law, ranging from environmental issues, the fishery and to changes proposed to Canada's health care, employment insurance, among others.
"There will be a slowdown of traffic, both in-bound and out-bound," he said, adding a "significant" number of people will be involved in the demonstration.
Other activities will include native drumming and singing and a sacred fire will be lit.
The Mi'kmaq activity will be held in conjunction with other nationwide protests that stems from the federal government not having fulfilled its duty to consult with the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia or any First Nations across our country, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs said in a news release.
"The Mi'kmaq are rightfully upset," said chief Terrance Paul, co-chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs. "There was no consultation and Bill C-45 will have direct impacts on Mi'kmaq rights and title."
