MONTREAL – A somewhat muted protest greeted right-wing French politician Marine Le Pen at Montreal’s Marriott Chateau Champlain Hotel Monday evening.
About 150 people gathered in front of the hotel, whose glass doors were being carefully guarded by police.
Le Pen, the leader of France’s far-right Front National, is visiting Quebec and has been critical of Canada’s Syrian refugee policy during her trip.
READ MORE: Marine Le Pen criticizes Canada’s immigration policy during Quebec City visit
In her country, Le Pen is known for her opposition to mass immigration to France and her critics have labelled her as xenophobic.
One protester’s sign read “Status for all!”
Le Pen is planning to hold a news conference in Montreal on Tuesday morning.
“She can say whatever she wants, but I’m proud of Canada, proud of Quebec and proud of Montreal for its diversity,” said Mayor Denis Coderre at a press event celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Olympic Summer Games at the Olympic Stadium.
“I have no time for her.”
The protest lasted about an hour and involved a few speeches and music.
It was in general peaceful, but spirited in parts.
* With files from the Canadian Press.
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