This is the first time I’m hearing of any kind of protest against the Prince and his new wife! Apparently Prince William and his wife Catherine arrived in Montreal Saturday evening to a small group of demonstrators who opposed the newlywed couple’s tour of Canada and the British monarchy they represent. Find out more and watch the footage after the jump!
(CNN)–The demonstrators — carrying signs and chanting slogans — were among the first groups to oppose the visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who are on their first official foreign trip as a married couple.
Canada is part of the Commonwealth of Nations — a loose association of nations that were once part of the British Empire.
Earlier Saturday, William and Catherine were in Ottawa, wrapping up their last official day there by planting a tree and meeting with Canadian war veterans.
The royal couple joined a long list of illustrious international visitors when they ceremonially planted a Canadian hemlock on the grounds of Rideau Hall.
They then greeted veterans of conflicts and peacekeeping missions, including some who have served in Afghanistan, and representatives of the many British women who migrated to Canada to start a new life after World War II.
The pair later traveled to French-speaking Quebec province for the next stage of their four-province, nine-day trip, where they toured a flagship Montreal hospital dedicated to the care of mothers and children.
Their official day is scheduled to end with a workshop at the Quebec Tourism and Hotel Institute, rolling up their sleeves and cooking alongside students using local ingredients.
Prince William and the duchess had received a warm welcome since arriving in Ottawa Thursday. They had joined a crowd of almost 300,000 Canadians Friday to mark the celebration of Canada Day, on the 144th anniversary of the country’s independence.
However, more anti-monarchy protesters are expected to demonstrate Sunday at Quebec City Hall.
Canadian broadcaster CBC reports that Quebec’s relationship with the monarchy has often been strained, with the Queen met by booing protesters on a visit to the province in 1964.
The couple’s itinerary also includes stops in Prince Edward Island — where Prince William will take part in a coast guard rescue exercise — the Northwest Territories and Alberta.
After they wrap up their Canadian tour, the duke and duchess will head to California for three days.
