The Saskatoon Police Service will have officers present at a protest rally planned for Sunday. The officers will be increasing monitoring and enforcement of the Public Health Order due to an increase in community concerns due to the COVID-19 variants of concern (VOC). While investigations have been focused on organizers and key participants in the past, all those planning to attend should be aware that anyone in violation of the restrictions could face a charge under The Public Health Act.

Enforcement during an event is not always visible and involves uniform and plainclothes police members. They will be monitoring for violations of federal, provincial or municipal laws and, post event, will continue the investigation which in the past, has resulted in charges. In its response to protests the SPS continues to attempt to find a balance between ensuring the general safety of the community at large and protecting the rights of people to express their opinion in a safe manner. We encourage members of the public to adhere to the restrictions set out in the Public Health Order and not attend events where violations may occur.

The SPS has issued 35 tickets to date for violations of the Public Health Order since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.