ISU identifies Designated Speech Area in Huntsville

BARRIE, ON, May 18 /CNW/ - The Integrated Security Unit (ISU) has selected a location for the Designated Speech Area (DSA) in Huntsville for the G8 Summit on June 25 and 26, 2010.

The DSA will be located on the west side of Golf Course Road, approximately 500 metres from Earl's Road, north of Highway 60. The site will be equipped with basic sanitary installations and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be responsible for ensuring public safety.

"Our mandate is to ensure the safety of everyone involved with the G8, from the world leaders, to visitors, protestors and residents", said Chief Superintendent Alphonse MacNeil, head of the ISU. "We have worked diligently with different groups to support the peaceful exercise of freedom of speech and lawful assembly."

Parking for buses that may bring protestors to Huntsville has also been arranged. Information on the DSA site and the bus parking location will be available on the ISU website at www.g8-g20isu.ca.

"The OPP has a long history of supporting the lawful exercise of constitutional rights", said Chief Superintendent Brian Deevy, ISU project lead for the OPP. "The designated speech area will provide protestors with a safe and secure location to do that."

Overnight camping will not be permitted at the DSA to help ensure public safety.

For updates on security measures, visit the ISU website at www.g8-g20isu.ca.

For further information: ISU Media Relations at 1-888-338-3738