Judge set to rule on Oppenheimer Park injunction
Posted October 5, 2014 2:26 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS113) – Campers at Vancouver’s Oppenheimer Park will learn this week if they have to pack up and leave.
A BC Supreme Court judge will rule on an injunction tomorrow.
Lawyers for the city have argued the makeshift community is a hazard and poses a public risk.
Mayor Gregor Roberston says the safety of people at the park remains the top priority.
“Our police and fire continue to work there daily, supported by city staff. We are going to ensure people get access to housing and shelter. As winter approaches that’s the key issue here, and we have to make sure people are safe.”
He says regardless of the ruling, the city will ensure people have access to housing. “There’s a few different shelter options and housing coming on Howe Street in the weeks ahead. We’re hopeful to see more options come forward in partnership with BC Housing, as well.”
The Pivot Legal Society argues it’s unconstitutional to kick people out of the park.
