Establishment of G7 Designated Demonstration Zones

Banff

Following community feedback about traffic congestion, public safety, and potential disruptions to tourism and daily life, the originally proposed site—Central Park— was reconsidered.

The new location for the Banff G7 Designated Demonstration Zones (DDZs), Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre located at 100 Norquay Road, was selected based on environmental and municipal considerations, including agreement from the Town of Banff. It took into consideration the safety of protesters as well as its accessibility and visibility to the main route leading to the G7 International Media Centre.

"Canadians have a right to express themselves guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This is an important freedom that must be respected," stated Chief Superintendent Hall. "The ISSG recognized that there were concerns from the town of Banff about locating a demonstration zone in the downtown core, and we have worked to find a solution that minimizes impact on main traffic corridors, maintains public safety, and provides a visible opportunity for peaceful demonstration. If any unlawful activity occurs in any location, our team will address the situation on a case-by-case basis."

The ISSG will be working closely with law enforcement partners to actively manage traffic in this area to ensure minimal disruption to local businesses and tourists. This includes ensuring that the flow of traffic is facilitated along all routes around this area.

Calgary

To help ensure the safety of residents, tourists, and demonstrators, the Calgary Police Service (CPS), in collaboration with the ISSG, is planning multiple demonstration areas across the city and will be establishing two G7 DDZs in Calgary. Both locations were selected in collaboration with the City of Calgary based on their high visibility, media access, and capacity to safely accommodate large crowds. These two locations, commonly used for large-scale protests, will be equipped with infrastructure to broadcast demonstrators' messages to G7 leaders at the Summit site. Protesters will be encouraged to use these spaces to be both seen and heard.

The two official DDZs are:

• Municipal Plaza - 800 Macleod Trail SE
• Enoch/East Victoria Park - 1102 Macleod Trail SE

An additional DDZ will be located near Calgary International Airport at the Edward H. LaBorde Viewing Area, located at 15 Street and McKnight Boulevard NE. This airport site, along with any additional locations identified based on emerging needs will not be broadcasted at the Summit site.

"The public can expect to see large police presence from both regular duty CPS members along with the Public Safety Unit to ensure the safety of all," stated Superintendent Joe Brar, Calgary Police Service G7 Event Security Director. "We are committed to working with organizers to ensure all demonstrations are lawful, peaceful and safe while minimizing community disruption. Any behaviour that is unlawful or jeopardizes public safety will be addressed in accordance with the law."

The ISSG and its policing partners will be taking a measured approach in response to any protest activity, with a focus on de-escalation, dialogue, and the safety of all involved. Enforcement measures will only be taken when necessary to respond to criminal activity or maintain public order.

"We remain committed to transparency and accountability in all our actions," added Chief Superintendent Hall. "We will take a measured, proportionate approach to protests and will take enforcement action only when necessary to maintain public order or respond to criminal activity."

Information about the location and guidelines for the G7 Designated Demonstration Zones can be found online at g7.rcmp.ca and www.calgarypolice.ca/protesting.