A storm of locusts...

April 16 (Ian Bailey, CanWest News) Emerson granted rare protest-free appearance

And Emerson, who crossed the floor in February after being elected as a Grit, suggested things were feeling “normal” to him as an MP.

“It’s just that every once in awhile the locusts descend on me and it creates situations that are a little abnormal, but I carry on with my work,” said Emerson, adding he respects his critics.

In a speech to worshippers within the temple, Emerson said there have “been some high points and there’s been some low points” in his two years in public life since being elected a Liberal in 2004 and being appointed industry minister.

The spokesman for the campaign against Emerson said the minister got a protest pass because activists were taking the Easter weekend off and had not heard about the event until it was too late.

“We have stuff coming up over the next few weeks,” said Mike Watkins, a card-carrying Conservative involved in the campaign.

Watkins said it’s “a given” that activists will be at a speech Emerson will be giving to the Vancouver Board of Trade next week.

“We’re as committed today as we were on Day One,” said Watkins.

He said activists still want Emerson to resign and allow for a by-election so voters can have their say on his defection.

They also want to see legislation curbing floor-crossing passed in Parliament.

“We’re not finding anyone prepared to lay down their weapons, so to speak, and wait for the next election,” said Watkins.

The ‘locusts’ are still very much alive and engaged in this fight. Stay tuned.