In a bold display of activism, two individuals were arrested during a Greenpeace protest outside Stornoway, the official residence of Canada's Opposition leader, Pierre Poilievre, on Thursday morning.

The protest aimed to highlight what Greenpeace Canada calls Poilievre's "anti-climate agenda," asserting that his policies prioritize polluters over the well-being of the public. To emphasize their message, activists set up a striking replica oil pumpjack on the driveway, a decision that garnered significant attention and sparked heated discussions around climate policy.

The oil jack was symbolically painted with charcoal derived from the devastating 2021 wildfires in Lytton, British Columbia, visually representing the dire consequences of neglecting climate action. This artistic choice was aimed at drawing parallels between Poilievre's political stance and the tangible damage caused by climate inaction.

According to the Ottawa Police Service, around 12 demonstrators gathered on Acacia Avenue at approximately 7:15 a.m. to conduct what has been described as an "unlawful demonstration." The protesters succeeded in blocking access to the residence by constructing a structure and chaining themselves to it. This led to disruptions for Poilievre's family, prompting police intervention.

After notifying the demonstrators of the unlawful nature of their actions, four activists chose to leave the structure; however, two individuals refused to comply with repeated police requests, leading to their arrest. Video footage shared on Greenpeace Canada's Instagram provides a glimpse of the protest, showcasing the oil pumpjack and a compelling sign reading, "Poilievre: Protecting polluters, betraying people!" Firefighters were later called to assist in unchaining protesters from the replica.

As the matter unfolds, police have indicated that criminal charges may be forthcoming. The protest has reignited the debate over climate policy in Canada, particularly regarding the conservative leadership's stance, and it remains to be seen how this incident will impact public perception and political discourse surrounding climate issues.

Pierre Poilievre, who lives with his family at Stornoway, has yet to issue a formal response to the protest or the ensuing arrests. As the climate crisis continues to escalate globally, actions such as these serve as a reminder of the urgency felt by activists striving for a sustainable future.