The Freedom Convoy posed a “risk of serious violence” that justified emergency measures, says Attorney General Arif Virani. His remarks came five weeks after a federal judge ruled use of the Emergencies Act against peaceful demonstrators was unjustified and unlawful.

“There was a risk of serious violence that was a crucial consideration supporting the decision to declare a public order emergency,” Virani testified at the Special Joint Committee on the Declaration of Emergency. “The sole purpose of the temporary measures that were made was to bring about a swift, orderly and peaceful end to the circumstances.”

Virani did not comment on the January 23 Federal Court ruling that dismissed cabinet arguments over its use of emergency powers. Cabinet is appealing the decision. “Reasonable people can have disagreements about matters of law,” he said.