More than 150 student protestors were arrested in Gatineau Wednesday as they continued their protest against a tuition fee increase being proposed by the Quebec government.
The showdown happened at the University of Quebec's Outaouais Campus after the protesters again blocked traffic on Alexandre-Tache Boulevard near the campus against police orders.
For the third consecutive day, the students were defying a court injunction that ordered them to return to class.
"You have the right to protest," said one student covering their face. "You have the right to speak your own mind and say what's important for you."
The Gatineau Police Riot Squad cut off the protesters as they tried to move to another campus.
"When I saw the cops, I said I want to go, but they were everywhere so I couldn't get out of there," said protester Kathleen Durocher.
All of the arrested protesters were fined about $450.
"It's going to be zero tolerance," said Cst. Pierre Lanthier of the Gatineau Police.
Many of the students plan on disputing the charges in court. Some of their supporters say the fight for an affordable education is worth much more than the cost of a fine.
"I'm retired so for me to pay tuition of $5, 000 is impossible," said Renaud Bouret, whose son was protesting. "Of course I'm proud [of my son.]"
With a report from CTV Ottawa's John Hua
