Two people cleared of harassing the premier and his family say the entire affair was “a big win” in their books.
Dana Metcalfe and Shane Sweeney were charged after a pop-up convoy protest outside Premier Andrew Furey’s home in July of 2023.
Yesterday, those charges were dismissed in exchange for one-year, no-contact peace bonds, as well as apologies from both.
But they made it clear their apologies were for Furey’s teenage daughter, the only one home at the time, not for their continued human rights and child advocacy.
Metcalfe says the ordeal served its purpose.
“Oh, 100 per cent. We’ve created enough of a stir of the pot, so to speak, so that parents have a better understanding of what’s happening,” she told VOCM News. “And I think having the charges dropped is a clear indication that when you stand up for what you believe in and you stand steadfast, change can happen. Because this is a big win.”
Meanwhile, a Nova Scotia prosecutor handled the case due to the premier’s conflict with provincial Crown attorneys.
Nova Scotia Crown prosecutor Rob Kennedy. (VOCM News)
Rob Kennedy said he believes the resolution was in everyone’s best interest.
“It prevented Premier Furey’s daughter from having to testify and it also creates a safety net for Premier Furey and his family going for the next year, that Ms. Metcalfe and Mr. Sweeney will not be able to attend within 15 metres of their residence,” Kennedy told VOCM News outside the courtroom, noting the apologies were something Furey had sought.
Premier Furey has declined comment on the case.
