Protesters speak out against Ottawa's proposed buffer zone ordinance at hospitals
Protest Against "Bubble Zone" Bylaw in Ottawa
The City of Ottawa is seeking public input on a proposed bylaw that would restrict demonstrations outside hospitals, sparking a heated response from hospital workers and their unions.
At the heart of the controversy is Jamie-Lynne Hunt, a registered practical nurse and lead steward for CUPE 1502, who traveled from Pembroke to rally at Ottawa City Hall. Hunt, along with other hospital workers, is concerned that the proposed bylaw could infringe upon their rights and freedoms.
The proposed bylaw, if passed, would prohibit demonstrations around certain buildings like places of worship, schools, and hospitals, with a protective distance of up to 80 metres around "vulnerable social infrastructure." This has raised concerns among union leaders, who argue that it could limit their ability to protest issues such as underfunding and "hallway healthcare."
Michael Hurley, president of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU) of CUPE, stated that the city should allow protests around matters of public policy. He believes the city's plan doesn't go far enough to protect freedom of speech regarding the proposed bylaw.
Suzanne Pinel-Asselin, francophone vice-president of OCHU, echoed Hurley's sentiments, highlighting that protests are one of the only tools hospital workers have to bring attention to these issues. Legal experts warn that banning protests could take away a basic tool that unions use to push for change.
City councillor Sean Devine expressed concern that the bylaw would restrict the only legitimate access hospital workers have to protest. He is not alone in his concerns, as the union president believes the city's plan doesn't go far enough to protect freedom of speech regarding the proposed bylaw.
Jodi Julius, a national staff representative with the Canadian Union of Public Employees, shared similar sentiments. She stated that what happens in Ottawa could affect other communities, and the proposed bylaw could set a dangerous precedent.
The group from Pembroke is there to support Ottawa hospital workers who will be affected by the bylaw. Hunt stated that it's important to have the ability to speak up for what is right, and those rights and freedoms should not be eroded.
As the city considers the proposed bylaw, the debate over freedom of speech and the right to protest continues. The public is encouraged to provide input on the proposed bylaw, with the hope that a balanced solution can be found that respects the rights of all parties involved.
