Yesterday, many people across our city were upset and offended by images of crowds congregating together in Trinity Bellwoods Park. I count myself among them. Please see my statement below.

We are still in the middle of a pandemic. The risk is very real. I know the past few months have been hard on all of us, but all the sacrifices we have made up to this point will be for nothing, if we spike a second, larger wave of infections, due to recklessness and complacency.

Public space and access to the outdoors is important. Yesterday, there were many examples of people safely physically distancing and enjoying the sun in other parks across the city. We're working hard to open up streets and green spaces so people can safely spend time outside.

Our parks will remain open, but people have to act responsibly. Bylaw officers will be highly visible and working proactively to ensure we don’t see a repeat of Saturday. We need to protect ourselves and each other, if we're going to get through this safely.