The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) aims to “significantly” increase the police presence in the federal capital on Canada Day this year. In a press release, the police force signaled their intention not to attend demonstrations like last February.
In a statement on Friday, the OPS said to expect for this Canadian Heritage event it was bigger than usual, in terms of crowd and event footprintin addition to other events organized that day throughout the city of Ottawa.
Due to current work, the festivities have been moved mainly to the Parc des Plaines-LeBreton and Place des Festivals Zibi. But police expect rallies on Parliament Hill.
” These factors, combined with higher levels of related events and activities, serve as a planning guide. There will be major road closures and a large increase in the police presence. We will call reinforcements borrowed from some police services. “
Protesters opposed to the health measures shared they wanted to organize events in Ottawa throughout the summer, including Canada Day.
We received several questions online about the planned protests and other comments. We know these discussions and we plan accordingly.will we read in the press release of OPS.
” We will not allow the conditions that led to the illegal protests in February to be repeated. To develop our plan, we are applying the lessons learned in light of the illegal protests as well as in “rolling thunder“and other related events. “
The OPS also argues that it would be prohibited vehicle -focused events in and around areas of national importance. This was a request from the City of Ottawa, the police force said.
The right to hold legitimate and peaceful protests will always be protectedemphasizes the OPS.
In addition, Ottawa police said they are working on preparations to maintain security on Canada Day for several weeks. Planning includes looking for informationwill we read in the press release.
Radio Canada
Source: Radio-Canada
