Park Board Demands Protestors Leave Victory Square

July 17, 2003 - The Vancouver Park Board is formally demanding that protestors leave Victory Square immediately to allow for the return of the park to the community and for planned renovations to begin.

The construction project, developed with the community, has been delayed by protestors occupying the park since July 2nd. The schedule called for the work to begin this week in order for the project to be finished in time for the November 11 Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Cenotaph. According to Park Board Chair Heather Deal, "We have been working with City staff to find housing for the homeless people in the camp. Now it is time to begin work to upgrade this historic park as we had intended and to keep our obligation to local residents, businesses and veterans". She added, "We are concerned that comments and actions attributed to people in the camp could lead to confrontation. We ask that everyone remain calm."

Heather Deal will be available to the media today for comment.

What: Media Availability Session
When: 2:00 pm, July 17, 2003
Where: Board Room, 2099 Beach Avenue

Contact Joyce Courtney, Manager of Communications, ph. 604-257-8699 or cell: 604-861-4375
vancouverparks.ca