Protesters shut down Highway 6 near Caledonia

Ontario Provincial Police are on scene at a protest that has blocked traffic south of Caledonia on Highway 6 in Haldimand County. A group of about 40 First Nations protestershave created a peaceful blockade on the highway near the Fifth Line, according toConst.Mark Foster.

Police are on scene diverting traffic and speaking with protesters to determine when the highway might be reopened, but in the meantime are asking drivers to avoid the area if possible.

"It had been a little bad during rush hour but things are starting to dwindle now and get back to regular traffic volumes," Foster said.

According to Turtle Island News, the protesters are demonstrating in support of the Elsipogtog First Nations in New Brunswick, where shale gas protestersand RCMP trying to enforce an injunctionclashed this evening, leading to at least five police vehicles being set on fire and the arrest of a First Nations chief.

In a news release, the RCMP said that in New Brunswick, more than 40 protesters have been arrested for various offences including firearms offences, uttering threats, intimidation, mischiefand for refusing to abide by a court injunction.

The RCMP said at least one shot was fired by someone other than police andthat Molotov cocktails have been thrown at police, whileat least five RCMP vehicles have been destroyed by fire. Police are also investigating suspected explosive devicesat the scene.

The area in Caledonia was once the site of long lasting blockage around Douglas Creek Estates as part of a First Nations land claims disputein 2006.