Text to Speech Icon

Listen to this article

Estimated 2 minutes

The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.

What was supposed to be the start of Premier Tim Houston’s speaking tour to chambers of commerce across Nova Scotia ended up with him requiring a police escort.

Houston was in Wolfville, N.S., on Wednesday where he was addressing the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce at Acadia University about his vision for the province’s economy.

When Houston first arrived at the university, a group of about 50 peaceful protesters were standing outside, mostly looking to draw attention to concerns about the potential closures of libraries in the Annapolis Valley.

However, throughout Houston’s speech, the crowd outside grew louder with an increasing number of people protesting about a variety of issues.

Man at podium speaks to a room full of people seated at tables.Premier Tim Houston spoke at the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. (Michael Gorman/CBC)

When Houston left the building, the vehicle he got into was surrounded.

At one point, people climbed on top of it, halting the vehicle. Houston remained inside for several minutes until police ultimately escorted him out of the car and back into the building. Protesters also smashed the windshield.

A number of police cars have since arrived on the scene and there is a heavy police presence on the university campus.

people surround a white SUV in front a buildingProtesters in Wolfville, N.S., blocked Premier Tim Houston’s vehicle from leaving the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce event on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. (Jeorge Sadi/CBC)

Houston was scheduled to attend another announcement later in the day, although it remains to be seen whether or not he will make it.

The second stop on his chamber of commerce tour is scheduled for Thursday in Yarmouth, N.S.

MORE TOP STORIES