Idle No More protest to cause some delays on Hwy 1

A planned Idle No More protest on the Trans-Canada Highway just outside of Regina has ended.

The RCMP had previously advised drivers traveling on the Trans-Canada Highway to expect delays Saturday afternoon between noon and  3 p.m. CST because of the protest.

About 150 protesters staged a slowdown blockade on Highway 1 near the Pilot Butte turnoff in the right westbound lane while RCMP directed traffic. The weather was as cold as -13 C during that time.

Shawna Ochoo is organizing the event and said protesters will be talking to motorists to get their message out to the public.

Protesters also planned to hand out information starting at noon.

Oochoo said ahead of the protest that while people may get angry at the slowdown, it's worth getting the message out.

"Whether it ticks people off or not, we will still move forward with getting our message out there, you know, and just showing people that Idle No More is still here," said Oochoo.

The RCMP closed part of Highway 624 from Highway 1 to Highway 46 from noon to 3 p.m. CST as a safety precaution.

In Saskatoon, a major rally was also planned at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge at noon. Actress Tantoo Cardinal was the keynote speaker, and some Idle No More founders were also on the guest list.