"OPP is Ready for Summit Activity"

Says Commissioner Fantino

ORILLIA, ON, June 21 /CNW/ - Security preparations for the upcoming G8/G20 Summits are among the most comprehensive and complex ever initiated in Canada, says Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Commissioner Julian Fantino. The OPP, working in close cooperation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), various levels of law enforcement and the Canadian Forces, is focused on ensuring the safety and security of world leaders, as well as residents and visitors during the G8 Summit in Huntsville.

"Providing security for such high profile events is a major undertaking, given the presence of the world's most powerful leaders and that Summits of this nature provide many different opportunities for groups and organizations to draw attention to their causes," says Commissioner Fantino. "We are committed to the highest level of security for the world's leaders and also to ensuring that events occurring elsewhere in Ontario in the coming week take place in a safe and orderly manner."

The OPP is well prepared to ensure that public safety and the right to peaceful freedom of expression and assembly are served in the best way possible. While much of the activity will be centred in the areas of the Summits, the OPP is prepared to respond to protest activity in other parts of the province.

According to Commissioner Fantino, "Our planning and preparations are appropriate to our goal of seeing these activities through to a positive conclusion, as has been the case with the peaceful nature of recent First Nations demonstrations across the Province."

Commissioner Fantino reiterates that criminal activity will not be tolerated. "The OPP fully respects the right to peaceful protest, but anyone intent on engaging in acts of lawlessness will be held accountable."

The OPP will respond to situations that arise in a measured, professional and appropriate manner, while ensuring optimum service to all our OPP policed communities.

Commissioner Fantino acknowledges that Summit security and potential protest activity will result in temporary disruptions and inconvenience, and expresses appreciation to everyone affected for their patience and understanding.

For further information: PC Dennis Harwood, Phone: [phone]