RCMP are warning those heading to cottage country or to the United States this long weekend to expect traffic delays.

Police say that they have been in contact with Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) about planned protests on Friday August 30, 2019.

SCO is planning a series of round dances on Highway 75 near the border as well as on Highway 59 near South Beach Casino between 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm

SCO has said “The peaceful, mobilizing dances are held in response to the encroachment on First Nations’ rights, and blatant disregard for the well-being of our people by provincial and federal governments.”

Although the protests are expected to be peaceful and will consist of 10 minute round dances followed by 15 minute breaks for traffic to flow through police say delays could be lengthy heading into the long weekend.

“We will have a number of officers on scene at both locations to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved,” said Sgt. Paul Manaigre of the Manitoba RCMP. “We know people want to get to their destinations but we ask the public to be patient, to slow down when approaching police vehicles, and follow the instructions of the officers.”

© News4.ca 2020