Saskatoon halts encampment cleanup following aggressive protests

The City of Saskatoon has paused the planned cleanup of two encampments located on vacant lots at Avenue K between 19th and 20th Streets following aggressive protests. City officials reported that demonstrators attempted to obstruct crews by circling vehicles and climbing on stacked fencing. The city stated that personnel from the Saskatoon Fire Department and police officers were met with profane and derogatory comments.

While workers noted that many protesters did not appear to be residents of the encampments, the pause may cause frustration for local community members, including staff and families at the St. Mary’s Wellness and Education Centre, who have advocated for the cleanup for a year.

David Fineday, a member of the Sweetgrass First Nation, raised concerns regarding the displacement of individuals living in the area. He argued that the city must provide alternative housing for those currently in survival mode, noting that the lack of affordable housing is a primary driver for the existence of the tent city.