CITYnews halifax: Protesters swarmed N.S. premier, broke vehicle windshield after speaking event

CITYnews halifax / By The Canadian Press

Tim Houston’s office says the Nova Scotia premier came face-to-face with protesters who swarmed his car and broke glass while he was trying to leave a speaking engagement in the Annapolis Valley.

A statement from Houston’s office says an “extreme faction” among a group of protesters became violent in Wolfville, N.S.

The premier spoke Wednesday at an event held by the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce at Acadia University.

The premier’s office says while leaving the venue, Houston’s vehicle and his staff’s vehicles were swarmed by protesters who prevented them from leaving.

It says protesters were pushing law enforcement, climbed onto a vehicle and smashed the windshield while Houston was inside.

Related:

• Premier touring across the province speaking about issues with businesses
• Cuts to education sector made ‘without much forethought’: N.S. NDP

The statement thanked RCMP and other law enforcement for their support in what they called a “very volatile situation.”

“When bad actors resort to damaging property and putting lives at risk, they do nothing to advance constructive dialogue,” the statement sent Wednesday says.

Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the protesters’ actions.

“In Canada, we have the right to protest peacefully,” he said on social media. “There is no excuse to resort to violence and intimidation.”

The most recent Nova Scotia legislature sitting was marked by weeks of protests over Houston’s budget cuts, a partial reversal of some funding reductions, and criticism over public restrictions at the legislature.

Opposition NDP Leader Claudia Chender says Nova Scotians have significant and valid concerns with Houston’s government’s recent budget and decision-making, but destruction of property and threats to safety are never the best way forward.

“Nova Scotians can and must let their voices be heard and be part of the democratic process, and that can be done with clarity and strength in a safe and respectful way,” Chender said in a statement Wednesday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 15, 2026.