Recent Protests Downtown

Thank you to everyone who reached out regarding the recent protests downtown.

By-law and Regulatory Services’ (BLRS) role with respect to demonstrations is to, where feasible and reasonable, address issues related to nuisance that disturbs the community.

During the protest, BLRS addressed concerns about the use of sound reproduction devices specifically, loudspeakers and megaphones, through enforcement of the City of Ottawa Noise By-law. Users were issued warnings, followed by charges when the activity continued.

Escalated enforcement during demonstrations is a result of escalated actions by the participants, which may pose nuisance and public safety issues.

I trust you will appreciate that I am not in a position to discuss specific enforcement matters. Regard is given to the City’s Provincial Offences Conflict of Interest Policy and other enforcement mechanisms that separate and maintain the indepedence of enforcement processes.

Thanks for reaching out. I always appreciate hearing from you.