Demonstrations in Ottawa this weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, October 20, 2023  2:46 pm 

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service is preparing for another busy weekend with several planned demonstrations taking place in the downtown core on Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday, Metcalfe Street will be closed between Queen Street and Wellington Street. Other temporary road impacts may include Wellington Street, Elgin Street, Laurier Avenue and Bank Street.

We continue to work with our municipal and policing partners to ensure public safety.

We will have resources, logistics, traffic, towing and staffing plans in place to address any scenario.

The Ottawa Community expects that our streets are safe for all to use lawfully.

There is zero tolerance for unlawful behaviour and vehicle-based demonstrations.

Residents and businesses will see an increased police presence in the downtown core and surrounding areas.

Hate has no place in our city.

We would like to thank Ottawa residents and communities for remaining peaceful during assemblies related to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza.

Anyone who witnesses or experiences hate-motivated incidents is asked to report them to police by calling the Police Reporting Unit at 613-236-1222, 7300 (or 911 in a life-threatening emergency) online at ottawapolice.ca/report. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Hate speech and hate symbols, as recently seen on graffiti in Ottawa or on flags in other cities, will not be tolerated. 

Police responsibilities during demonstrations

The Ottawa Police Service respects the right of everyone to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. 

Everyone also has a right to a safe environment.

Illegal activity or obstructing or impeding the flow of traffic with vehicles on any roadway will not be tolerated and will be met with immediate action.

During any assemblies, unlawful behaviour will be addressed promptly by Police or By-law officers to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.

We are constantly monitoring and assessing the environment, and we remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents.

We encourage visitors and residents to enjoy our beautiful city and all the events, local markets and outdoor activities it offers.

We will continue to update the community on any new information.

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CONTACT:

Media Relations Section         

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366

@OttawaPolice  

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