Tens of thousands of people are expected to converge on Ottawa for Canada Day celebrations.
Friday will mark Canada’s 155th birthday, along with the first in-person event in the capital city in three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reports indicate there’s the potential for protests and demonstrations, and Interim Ottawa Police Chief Steve Bell expects it will be a unique Canada Day with larger crowds.
He said there are growing concerns and lingering trauma because of the convoy events in February, “So we’re trying to work to identify as many organizers and leaders within those groups to have conversations with. In those conversations, we really clearly set our expectations.”
“We are prepared and will not tolerate any illegal activity by anyone,” stressed Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. “Those people who are coming here to disrupt those wonderful celebrations will be dealt with. There are not going to be warnings or second chances. If the law is broken, regardless of who breaks it, there will be consequences.”
There will be a high police presence for the festivities and Bell adds if there is unlawful behaviour, they have the resources, “We have put plans in place to make sure anyone from across Canada can come to Ottawa and safely celebrate Canada Day. If there is unlawful behaviour, we have plans and staffing in place to deal with that and manage it.”
Those multiple resources include public order units, traffic teams, tow trucks, and quick response teams, “We are prepared to take decisive and lawful action to deal with threats, occupation attempts and any other unlawful behaviour we observe.”
Canada Day festivities have been traditionally held on Parliament Hill. This year, they have been moved to LeBreton Flats instead.
