Highway protests won’t be tolerated during G7 summit in Kananaskis, head of security says

The head of security for the upcoming G7 leaders’ summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Chief Supt. David Hall, has confirmed that demonstrators will not be allowed to protest on highways during the event. This decision was made in the interest of safety for both motorists and protesters.

The Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG), led by the RCMP, is currently working with the Town of Banff to determine the exact location of a “demonstration zone” where protesters can express their opinions. Initially, the plan was to set up the demonstration zone in Banff’s Central Park, but concerns have been raised by the town about the impact on traffic and visitor experience.

Town manager Kelly Gibson expressed the town’s concerns about the initial plan, suggesting that demonstrators should be able to gather in places where the G7 leaders can see and hear their message. The international media center for the G7 summit will be located at the Banff Centre on Tunnel Mountain, approximately two kilometers from Central Park.

Despite the concerns raised by the town, Chief Supt. David Hall reiterated that a demonstration zone will still be established in Banff, but the exact location is yet to be determined. The RCMP-led security group is working closely with the community to address their concerns and find a suitable location for the demonstration zone.

In addition to Banff, similar demonstration zones will also be set up in Calgary. The G7 leaders’ summit in Kananaskis is scheduled to take place from June 15 to 17, with a controlled access zone around the summit location requiring accreditation for entry and exit from June 10 to 18.

The mayor of Banff has declined an interview request until the location of the demonstration zone is confirmed. The town’s communications manager, Jason Darrah, mentioned that the G7 organizers have been invited to present to Banff town council, and a public information session about the G7 is also being awaited.

Overall, the security team is working diligently to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and residents during the G7 summit, while also respecting the rights of protesters to peacefully demonstrate and express their opinions.